The Temptation of Evil: Why Do We Root for the Bad Guy?

Have you ever found yourself cheering for the bad guy in a story? It is a common phenomenon among readers and viewers, and it raises intriguing questions. By understanding the psychology behind rooting for the antagonist, we can delve deeper into the essence of storytelling and human nature.

The Morally Perfect and Imperfect Individual

Age-old wisdom tells us that none of us are purely good or evil. This conflicting moral spectrum is a cornerstone of human complexity. As noted by the famous Church Father, Augustine of Hippo, in his work City of God, human beings ‘have as many slaves as he has vices.’ This means that just as a person may have multiple imperfections or vices, they also have the potential for multiple areas of improvement.

Classical views of freedom see it as the ability to act according to one's true nature—what one ought to do. This is contrasted with the modern interpretation, which views freedom as the ability to act according to one's desires, disregarding moral obligations. Classical freedom fosters personal growth, while modern freedom can lead to self-destruction.

The Appeal of Evil

The villain in literature and media is not just a character to be despised; they can serve as a mirror reflecting our own darkness. Temptations, whether real or imagined, often come from the promise of immediate gratification or the illusion of control. Evil acts, though tempting, ultimately lead us to harm and self-destruction. Each sin we commit is a small act that can escalate into larger, more detrimental actions, leading to a profound sense of internal turmoil and loss of self.

Why the Villain Appeals

Defying societal norms and rooting for the villain can be a reflection of an individual's own struggles with their vices. When we find ourselves cheering for the antagonist, it indicates that we recognize and resonate with the flaws or weaknesses that the villain represents. This sympathy is not an endorsement of evil but rather an acknowledgment of our own imperfections. The villain is a representation of the darker aspects within us, and by rooting for them, we confront these aspects head-on.

Personal Heroism Through Villain Conquest

Ultimately, the true heroism lies in conquering our inner demons. By striving to overcome our personal vices, we can rise to become better versions of ourselves. The hero's journey is not merely about defeating an external foe but also about attaining personal growth and self-improvement. Referring to the quote from Augustine, each evil act is a form of self-destruction, whereas the path to true liberation is through self-improvement.

Examples in Popular Culture

Looking at popular culture, we can observe this dynamic in numerous forms. For instance, in the naruto series, fans often prefer Sasuke over Naruto, or in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, some prefer Dio Brando over Jotaro Kujo. In Bleach, the preference often lies with the heroes aside from a few notable villains like Barragan, Aizen, and Yhwach. This preference for villains is a reflection of our fascination with the dark sides of human nature.

However, even when rooting for the villain, there is a clear distinction made between the character and their actions. Just as the hero's journey is about growth, the villain's actions must still be condemned. In batman, rooting for the Joker is not an endorsement of his criminal activities but a fascination with the narrative of chaos and unpredictability that he brings to the story.

Conclusion

The question of why we root for the bad guy in stories is a profound one. It delves into the human psyche, revealing the darker aspects of our natures and providing a window into our own struggles for self-improvement. By understanding and acknowledging our own imperfections, we can grow and become better individuals. Just as the villain represents the struggle within us, the hero's journey is a testament to the possibility of self-transformation and redemption.