By, Jack Joseph

I’m fairly certain you can figure out which prompt to written this is in response, but if not, this is for the “evil” prompt.

__________

What is evil? The Oxford English Dictionary (yes, I looked it up before writing this) defines evil as “morally depraved, bad, wicked, or vicious.” It’s a fine definition, but it lacks specificity about “morality.” I believe Kant has the right take on it, or at least comes close. The German philosopher sees evil as using other people as a means unto an end. One should see that each person has their own intentions and beliefs and that each person is an end in and of themselves, not a means to fulfill one’s own intent.

Selfishness is not evil, but when it becomes malicious it makes the transition from looking out for oneself into something more sinister. The extent of evilness depends entirely on how far one has reduced and dehumanized the person. Take the example of pets versus farm animals. One is reducing the cow to how much milk can be acquired or how much meat can be taken from the pig, while a dog or cat is valued by its emotional support, playfulness, companionship, et cetera. The farm animal is valued for the services it provides, while the anthropomorphized pet is valued for its ability to make our lives easier by its unique existence. You wouldn’t name a farm animal, but you’d name a pet. I’m not saying what we do to cows is evil; I’m saying that going through the process of devaluing the existence of a creature puts one on the path to commit evil acts.

Slavery would be the epitome of evil by this definition. It dehumanizes those in servitude and makes their value based solely upon their ability to perform menial tasks. Slavery puts worth on physical capabilities and does not show any value for that which defines a human being. It equates a person with a creature that lacks any form of cognizance.

Empathy is the key to avoiding wickedness. If we all try to see others’ predicaments as if we were in their place, the world would be able to free itself from many of the burdens it suffers from. To slightly change the old phrase: do not do to others as you would not have others do to you.