Can We Be Heroes Again? Confronting the Banality of Modern Evil

Recent questions

• How do heroes influence moral integrity in society?

  Heroes play a crucial role in inspiring moral integrity and righteous action in society. Through their actions and decisions, heroes demonstrate the importance of standing against evil and upholding ethical values. By facing decisive moments that define their morality, heroes serve as role models for individuals, reminding them of their potential for good. The stories of heroism highlight the significance of moral guidance and encourage people to strive for righteousness in their own lives. Overall, heroes contribute to shaping a moral compass within society and serve as beacons of hope and inspiration for others to follow.

• What impact does globalization have on morality?

  Globalization has had a significant impact on morality by disconnecting consumption from local roots. This disconnect has led to ethical deterioration in various aspects of society. Allan Schnaiberg's Treadmill of Production theory links global markets to this decline in ethical values, as large corporations prioritize profit over moral considerations. Governments' passiveness towards ethical issues further contributes to societal problems, placing the burden of morality on individuals. While subpolitics and personal lifestyle changes are seen as tools for promoting morality, the complexities of modern society present challenges in addressing these ethical dilemmas. Overall, globalization has reshaped the moral landscape, requiring individuals to reflect on their impact on the world and take corrective actions to uphold ethical values.

• How can fear appeal theory motivate societal change?

  Fear appeal theory suggests that fear can motivate action and drive societal change. By highlighting the potential consequences of inaction or immoral behavior, fear appeals aim to spur individuals into taking corrective actions. However, it is essential to provide viable alternatives and empower individuals to make positive changes, as fear appeals can backfire if people feel powerless to alter their behavior. While fear can be a powerful motivator, it is crucial to balance it with hope and empowerment to ensure that individuals are driven towards constructive and ethical actions. Ultimately, fear appeal theory underscores the importance of addressing societal issues proactively and inspiring meaningful change through a combination of awareness, empowerment, and viable solutions.

• What role do strong emotions play in societal transformation?

  Strong emotions, such as anger towards societal injustices, are often linked to radical actions and a desire for change. While these emotions can fuel movements and inspire individuals to challenge the status quo, they may not always lead to rational decision-making. The transformation of Daenerys in Game of Thrones from liberator to tyrant exemplifies how strong emotions can drive individuals towards radical actions, with potentially negative consequences. Despite the risks associated with intense emotions, maintaining a sense of morality and ethical values is crucial in the face of societal evils. By channeling strong emotions towards constructive and ethical actions, individuals can work towards effecting positive societal transformation while navigating the complexities and challenges involved.

• Why are better stories essential for reshaping societal understanding?

  Better stories are essential for reshaping societal understanding of evil and morality, encouraging accountability among those in power and fostering a demand for true heroism. Cinematic depictions of evil can mythologize it, making it externalized and easy to distance oneself from. By promoting narratives that delve deeper into the origins of evil and emphasize the complexities of human morality, better stories can challenge individuals to think critically about societal issues and their own ethical values. Additionally, the power of unity and community in effecting change is highlighted through storytelling, urging individuals to come together to address widespread societal problems and challenge oppressive systems. Overall, better stories have the potential to inspire positive change, reshape societal norms, and foster a collective sense of responsibility towards creating a more just and ethical world.