Talking to the Devil: an interview from the Other Side. Boris Shabrin
evil is portrayed in the media?
Lucifer: Well, Fose, I believe that the media tend to portray evil in a very sensationalist and often inaccurate manner. Evil is often portrayed as glamorous or even attractive, which can be misleading. In reality, evil is dark, destructive, and often very ugly.
Fose: This is a very interesting point of view. Do you think that the portrayal of evil in the media affects how people perceive and respond to it?
Lucifer: Absolutely. The media has a tremendous influence on how people think and feel. When evil is portrayed in a sensationalistic or glamorous way, it can make people more likely to understand or even accept it. On the other hand, when evil is portrayed more accurately and realistically, it can help people see the true nature of evil and reject it.
Fose: I see. Going forward, can you talk about how evil can manifest itself in society?
Lucifer: Of course. Evil can manifest itself in many ways, but some of the most common include crime, corruption, and war. These are all ways in which individuals or groups seek power or wealth at the expense of others. They are all driven by greed, ambition, and a lack of empathy or concern for others.
Fose: And how do you think society can best deal with these manifestations of evil?
Lucifer: I believe the most important thing is to foster a sense of empathy and compassion for others. When we truly care about the well-being of others, we are less likely to engage in behavior that harms them. We are also more likely to take action to prevent harm to others. In addition, we must hold those who do evil accountable for their actions. This means not only punishing them when necessary, but also giving them the tools and resources they need to change their ways.
Fose: Thank you for your thoughts, Lucifer. It was a fascinating discussion.
The Psychology of Evil
Fose: I would like to ask you about the psychology of evil. In your experience, what are the root causes of evil behavior?
Lucifer: Evil behavior can be explained by various factors, but I believe that personality traits such as narcissism, sociopathy and psychopathy play a significant role. People with these traits tend to have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, lack empathy, and disregard the well-being of others. These traits make it easier for them to commit evil behavior without remorse.
Fose: That’s interesting. Do you think these character traits are innate or can they be developed?
Lucifer: It is a combination of both. Some people may be born with these traits, while others may develop them as a result of environment and experience.
Fose: Can you give an example of how the environment and experiences can contribute to the development of these personality traits?
Lucifer: Of course. Trauma, abuse, and neglect can contribute to the development of these traits. For example, a child who grew up in an abusive family may learn that violence and aggression are acceptable ways of dealing with problems. They may also develop a sense of detachment from their emotions as a way of coping with violence. Over time, this can lead to the development of sociopathic or psychopathic traits.
Fose: That makes sense. So, do you think that people who commit evil behavior are evil by nature, or do they have the potential to change?
Lucifer: Everyone has the potential to change, but it takes a lot of introspection and effort. People who engage in evil behavior often do so because they believe it is the only way to get what they want. Only when they are able to recognize the harm they are doing to others and to themselves can they begin to change.
The Morality of Evil
Fose: I want to begin by asking you about your view of the concept of moral relativism. Do you believe that there is an objective standard for what is right and wrong, or is morality simply a matter of personal opinion?
Lucifer: Ah, the eternal question of morality. I believe that morality is subjective and determined by one’s beliefs and values. What one person may consider morally right, another may consider morally wrong. It’s all a matter of perspective.
Fose: That’s an interesting point of view. But what about the harm that results from evil actions? Surely there must be some objective standard for measuring this?
Lucifer: Of course our actions have consequences. But whether those consequences are good or bad depends on whom you ask. Take, for example, a dictator who causes suffering and death to millions of people. To some people he may be considered evil, but to others he may be considered a hero who stands up for his beliefs.
Fose: I understand your point, but what about punishment? Is it an effective deterrent to those who commit evil?
Lucifer: Punishment is effective only if one believes that what he did was wrong. If one sincerely believes that what he did was justified, no amount of punishment will keep him from repeating his actions. This is why I believe that punishment should be used as a way of rehabilitation, not just punishment.
Fose: That’s an interesting point of view, Lucifer. But what about those who refuse to re-educate themselves and continue to do evil things?
Lucifer: There are very few people like that. Most people who do evil do so out of ignorance or because they have been driven to their limits. But for those who refuse to change, there are consequences for their actions. Each person determines his own path in life, and he must be prepared to face the consequences of his choices.
Confronting Evil
Fose: As a demon from hell, you are often associated with evil and malevolence. Can you tell us your thoughts on the concept of evil?
Lucifer: Of course. The concept of evil is an issue that has been debated for centuries. In my experience, evil is simply the absence of good. It is the result of individuals choosing to act in ways that harm others and disregard the welfare of society as a whole.
Fose: Many people believe that punishment is the most effective way to deal with evil. What do you think about this?
Lucifer: Punishment can certainly keep a person from harmful behavior, but it is not always the most effective solution. Punishment can also perpetuate the cycle of violence and anger, leading to even more evil behavior. Instead, we should focus on rehabilitating people and giving them the support and tools they need to make better choices in the future.
Fose: This brings me to my next question – do you believe that rehabilitation is possible for people who have committed evil behavior?
Lucifer: Absolutely. Everyone has the capacity for change and growth. Society must give them the resources and support they need to do this. This may not always be easy, but with dedication and effort everyone can overcome their past mistakes and make positive changes in their lives.
Fose: How can society as a whole work to prevent individuals from developing bad tendencies?
Lucifer: Education is key. By educating people about how their actions affect others and by fostering empathy and understanding, we can help prevent the development of evil tendencies. It’s also important to provide support and resources for people who may be struggling, whether through mental health services or outreach programs.
Fose: Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this important topic, Lucifer. Obviously, dealing with bad behavior requires a multifaceted approach that focuses on rehabilitation, education, and social support.
Chapter 6. The Purpose of Evil
How to define evil
Fose: As a demon, you associate with evil. Could you define what evil means to you?
Lucifer: To me evil is the opposite of love, compassion and kindness. It is the force that corrupts and destroys the beauty of the world. Evil is the force that makes people choose their selfish interests over the common good. Evil is not always black and white. It is influenced