Does Anyone Really Know What is Good or Bad?

You can disagree with me! On the other hand, this is my opinion. God didn't create evil so why are we even discussing it? This topic tickles my mind lately. I watched a Disney live-action movie, Maleficent, and I understood some deep meanings behind the well-known story of the fairytale, Sleeping Beauty.

There is no reason for those words to exist because they judge someone from the appearance of their actions. I did some research and figured out some reasons why someone can be called evil in reality:

They have past drama: Sometimes when you have deep trust in someone and one all of a sudden that person hurts you heavily for their own sake, without caring. Your heart gets seriously injured, and your mind starts to drink the poison of a new brand way of thinking. Sometimes you grow up in an environment that trains you and leads you to that path: You are not responsible, but you are considered as a bad person. That is also so intense to feel; it's too harsh to control.

So my conclusion is that for someone to be called evil might be overrated or just been hurt in the past.

Ethical Theories and the Morality of Actions

The concepts of ethics provide a framework for understanding the nature of moral behavior and judgment. Three main ethical theories are:

Consequentialism: This theory suggests that the morality of an action is determined by its outcomes. If the consequences are beneficial, the action is considered good; if harmful, it is deemed bad. Deontology: Deontological ethics argue that certain actions are inherently right or wrong regardless of their consequences. For example, telling the truth is often seen as a moral duty. Virtue Ethics: This perspective focuses on the character of the moral agent rather than on rules or consequences. Goodness is associated with virtues like courage, honesty, and compassion.

Cultural Relativism and the Influence of Society

Different cultures have varying beliefs about what constitutes good and bad. Practices acceptable in one culture may be viewed negatively in another, highlighting the influence of societal norms and values. This cultural relativism shapes our understanding of moral judgments.

The Role of Human Psychology in Moral Judgment

Human psychology plays a significant role in moral judgment. Factors such as empathy, social conditioning, and cognitive biases can influence how individuals perceive good and bad.

Evolutionary Psychology and Social Constructs

Some theories suggest that notions of good and bad have evolved as social constructs that enhance group cohesion and survival. Behaviors that promote cooperation and altruism may be seen as good through an evolutionary lens.

Personal Morality and Subjective Interpretations

Individuals often develop their own moral frameworks based on personal experiences, upbringing, education, and reflection. This can lead to diverse interpretations of good and bad, emphasizing the inherent complexity and subjectivity of moral judgments.

While there are philosophical frameworks and cultural contexts that provide guidance, the definitions of good and bad are ultimately complex and subjective, shaped by a multitude of factors.