quote:
Originally posted by Barry the Sprout:
...why does the concept (evil) feature so strongly in todays society...
Why? Evil is a word (like all others) with a definition, and when it fits a situation it's appropriate to use it.
evil:
1 a : morally reprehensible : SINFUL, WICKED b : arising from actual or imputed bad character or conduct
It's most common definitions are admittedly broad, which leaves it open to interpretation, but no more so than most other words.
For example:
intelligence:
(1) : the ability to learn or understand or to deal with new or trying situations : REASON; also : the skilled use of reason (2) : the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one's environment or to think abstractly as measured by objective criteria (as tests)
That's a reasonable definition. It sums up the concept, but is that all intelligence really is? Aren't there degrees of intelligence? Isn't intelligence judged differently by different people? By different cultures? Because the definition isn't
absolute should we do away with the concept of intelligence?
Is an evil man really evil, or is he a man who has done evil things?
Is a good man really good, or is he a man who has done good things?
Does it really matter which part of the sentance you place the concept in? Does it really matter if the definition isn't absolute?
[ 01-30-2002: Message edited by: Ronn_Bman ]