Member-only story
The weaknesses and shortcomings of “good” and “bad” people are surprisingly similar.
Our activist group, The Saners, does not believe (much) in evil people, only evil actions. Those in a position to do the most damage are the ones we are most concerned with stopping.
Stopping their evil actions, not harming them or exacting revenge. Some of this is simply morality—recognition of our common humanity, regardless of the foolish acts we may commit. In religious terms (and The Saners take no position on religion, per se), we believe that one should hate the sin and love the sinner.
We also believe that we ourselves fall short—often—not because we are inherently evil but because doing what’s right often requires significant courage, and ability to take personal risk. The Saners plan to enact a strategy that will enable many to contribute significantly to a positive change in the world, while minimizing personal risk.
What I want to point out here is that a similar dynamic is playing out within the people who are causing the most damage in the world today. They are facing internal psychological barriers, and lack the courage to do what’s right. In other words, the powerful share similar weaknesses and flaws with the (nominally) powerless people.
