I love reading different books on different topics during my free time to gain more knowledge. Recently, I came across a book about narcissists and how they are evil.
I then became interested in knowing more about this topic, as I wanted to find out if these kinds of people know what they do in instances where they show their narcissistic behaviors.
Since this is a medical term, I did extensive research by watching videos on the issue and reading different articles. To connect my findings to my work as a theologian, I consulted other theology professors to understand if the bible says anything about narcissism.
Interestingly, a few days later, a member of my online forum wanted to know if narcissists are evil. Another one wanted to know if narcissism is a mental illness.
Since I had done extensive research, I shared my findings with confidence. After we concluded the discussion, I was inspired to write this article and bring anyone with a question on this topic to light.
So, are narcissists evil?
Although no scripture in the bible directly refers to narcissists as evil, Bible scholars suggest that narcissistic people can be evil because they are acting as a result of the selfishness of their flesh. These scholars suggest that the bible has addressed topics related to narcissism, including pride, as seen in Psalms 10:34, an evil thing.
I invite you to join me until the end as I explore more about this topic. I will discuss if narcissism is a mental illness, what makes narcissists evil, and if a narcissistic person can stop being one, among other exciting topics.
Is narcissism a mental illness?
Narcissism is believed not to be a mental illness but a personality trait some people live with. Narcissism is a term mostly used in psychology to describe excessive self-love.
Narcissism is a Greek word from the name of Narcissus, a mythological being. Narcissus was believed to be obsessed with himself and fell in love with his image.
He then spent his entire life admiring his reflection in water until he passed. People who have this trait are believed to be very self-centered and may have a higher sense of entitlement than an average person.
Experts believe that narcissism can occur occasionally or mildly. However, some narcissistic behavior may grow to be very severe, in which a person can be diagnosed with a narcissistic personality disorder, a mental health problem.
What makes narcissists evil?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, evil is a morally wrong or wicked act. Wikipedia generally defines evil as the absence of good.
With this, we know that any act that is not for the good or is morally wrong is evil. As stated earlier, narcissistic people usually think of themselves more, and their narcissistic behaviors may end up hurting the people they interact with, making them evil.
One way narcissists are evil is that they usually get angry at people who do not praise or appease them. They may end up hurting these people, either emotionally or physically.
Narcissists are also evil because of their exploitative behavior. Medical experts suggest that narcissists will go out of their way to take advantage of the innocent as long as they feel contented.
They are also usually selfish, making them do the extreme in trying to satisfy their pride. Narcissists are believed to be evil because they already know what they are doing is wrong, but they will do it as long as it doesn’t affect them.
Do narcissists know what they are doing?
M Scott Peck, an American psychiatrist, suggests narcissists are evil and usually know what they are doing. Additionally, Francis Hutcheson, a philosopher who suggests that evil is premeditated, suggests that narcissists already know what they are doing because they had already planned it.
Other philosophers further suggest that narcissists can distinguish between right and wrong and, therefore, make a decision to do whatever wrong they feel like.
On the other hand, other experts speculate that not all narcissists know what they are doing, especially if they have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).
This type of narcissism can be triggered by different things, making the person unaware of what they are doing. Experts who believe this suggest that narcissists acting out due to their trauma or depression is less likely to know what they are doing.
These experts also suggest that narcissists have low emotional intelligence, and there is a chance that they do not know what they are doing.
Can a narcissist person stop being one?
Experts suggest that narcissists can stop being narcissistic by being open to putting others first and considering others in what they do.
Others also suggest that narcissists can stop being one by seeking help from professionals who can help them develop another positive trait, not narcissism.
Experts also suggest that a narcissist can stop being one by being accountable for their behaviors and stop blaming other people for everything.
Bible scholars suggest that narcissists can stop being narcissistic if they learn how to control their flesh and repent of their sins.
As a theologian, I have always been curious to learn more about the Christian Faith. That is why I pursued a Certificate in Christian Studies, Certificate in Christian Foundations and a Masters in Theology. I also have an immersive experience in editing for numerous websites. I have worked as an editor for over a decade and am currently the editor-in-chief at Christian Faith Guide. I enjoy working as an editor and feel privileged to share my expertise and help spread God’s word. You can read more about me on the about us page.
