Framing “evil” as a mystery—whether human, religious, or psychological—can make it seem more powerful, unknowable, and intimidating, which can discourage people from questioning or confronting it.
Evil is defined as a lack of a good that is not there when lends it an air of mystery.
So does the more magical view that evil is a substance and not a mere lack - a real dark influence.
Nobody claims to know if evil is one or the other. It is by faith that believers in God say it is lack - so they only believe. They have a subconscious sense that it might be more than that and that has to have an influence on them, an impact. The very concept of evil leads to mystery and the suspicion of mystery
Trying to make evil real—whether it’s inherently substantial or a parasite—turns the actor into a vector of evil, giving evil more “hands and intelligence.” You don't do evil unless you want it to be "real" enough to protect itself so you can protect yourself.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how seeing evil as a human, religious or psychological mystery is dangerous:
1. Saying evil is a “human mystery”
Implies inevitability: Suggests that evil is part of human nature, something we cannot fully control or understand.
Reduces accountability: People may feel that if it’s “inherent” to humans, no one can be truly responsible for their actions.
Creates fear of others: If evil is natural in humans, anyone could be capable of it, making others seem unpredictable and dangerous.
Discourages action: People might avoid confronting someone because they assume evil is unstoppable or unchangeable.
NOTE: All evil involves a level of self-objectification. Others are objectified too. You use yourself to do the evil and you use others. When someone objectifies themselves or others to commit evil, it introduces a sense of mystery because it makes the process of harming seem detached, incomprehensible, or beyond ordinary morality. This has to be projected to God for all notice how one's idea of God has been partly interpreted to suit one. The ultimate mystery is how one subconsciously can turn evil into part of faith and meaning.
Hate: Often reduces someone to a stereotype or category (“they are all X”), ignoring their individuality and humanity.
Manipulation: Sees the other person as a tool to achieve one’s goal, rather than respecting their autonomy.
Violence or abuse: The victim becomes an object for satisfying anger, power, or desire, not a human being with rights.
2. Saying evil is a “religious mystery”
Frames it as divine or supernatural: Evil becomes part of a cosmic plan or beyond human understanding.
Instills moral awe or fear: Religious contexts often suggest that evil has eternal consequences or is punished by higher powers.
Authorizes authority figures: Religious leaders, doctrines about God or texts are seen as having special insight into evil, making people less likely to challenge them.
Encourages submission: If evil is “God’s will” or part of a divine plan, challenging it could be viewed as impious or sinful.
3. Saying evil is a “psychological mystery”
Makes it seem unknowable scientifically: Evil is framed as buried deep in the human mind, beyond everyday reasoning.
Legitimizes secrecy or manipulation: Suggests that only experts (psychologists, psychiatrists) can understand or control it.
Creates fear of the self and others: People may worry that they or those around them harbor hidden evil tendencies.
Discourages confrontation: If evil is mysterious psychologically, confronting it seems risky or futile because you can’t predict behavior.
Overall Effect
Amplifies power: Mystery makes evil seem larger, more complex, and more dangerous than it might actually be.
Encourages obedience or fear: People may avoid questioning or confronting it to protect themselves.
Protects perpetrators: Labeling someone or something as “mysteriously evil” can shield them from criticism or accountability.