Ideas
Reith Lectures #2: Is there such a thing as evil?
Jan 16, 2025
Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist with the UK’s National Health Service and author of "The Devil You Know," delves into the notion of evil. She posits that everyone has the potential for 'evil' and emphasizes the need to nurture goodness. The discussion reveals that many violent individuals seem ordinary, challenging our perceptions. Adshead explores psychological elements behind harmful actions, the impact of childhood trauma, and the role of education and religion in fostering redemption and understanding.
54:08
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast explores how ordinary individuals can commit acts of violence driven by complex psychological factors and societal influences.
- Dr. Adshead emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes like poverty and mental health to rehabilitate and reduce violence in society.
Deep dives
The Nature of Evil
Evil can exist within ordinary people, and it can emerge through a complex interplay of circumstances and mental states. Many individuals who commit violent acts do not exhibit signs of mental illness and are often described as ordinary people acting on unpleasant motivations. The understanding of evil has historically been influenced by a range of disciplines, from theology to psychology, emphasizing its multifaceted nature. This complexity urges a deeper exploration of how ordinary individuals can rationalize their harmful behaviors while believing they are doing good.
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