Being an “evil” person is different from simply being “bad”. Evil is unforgivable, while “badness” is expected to be found in many (Hickey, 2010). Fictional media, such as Friday the 13th, Saw, Scream, and other horror films, reminded society that evil resides nearby. However, the media has also gradually introduced a concept of “nicest-guy-in-the-world” (Hickey, 2010). As a result, the public learned that serial killers and psychopaths might not necessarily fit into stereotypes.
Stereotypes of Serial Killers
Media focus on serial killers has led to the creation of persistent myths. For instance, serial killers are widely believed to be insane yet intelligent white males (Hickey, 2010). However, one in five serial killers in the U.S. is black, nearly 16% of serial killers are females, and only 2-4% of offenders are legally insane (Hickey, 2010). The majority of serial killers also were of average intelligence (Hickey, 2010). These stereotypes are difficult to overcome and can contribute to the spread of fear and panic.
Mass, Serial, and Spree Killings
These three types of murder might look similar, but there is a substantial difference between them. Most importantly, serial killers try to avoid detection and commit more murders, while mass and spree killers act openly and often commit suicide or surrender to the police (Hickey, 2010). As a result, serial killers are seen as more fearsome criminals (Hickey, 2010). In addition, mass killings differ from spree killings since the offender kills multiple victims in a single place, whereas spree murderer kills in separate locations in quick succession.
View of Past Cultures on Mental Illness
Many cultures of the past viewed mental illness as a form of possession by evil spirits. For example, a man from the Gospel of St. Mark is described as a lunatic possessed with a devil, who was later cast out into a herd of swine (Hickey, 2010). In the Middle East, mentally ill people were revered as oracles or brutally killed (Hickey, 2010). Overall, mental illness was mostly considered not a disease but a manifestation of evil.
Nine Pronouncements of The Satanic Bible
Essentially, nine pronouncements of Satan written by Anton LaVey invert Christian Commandments, just like a satanic trinity of the Devil parodies the Holy Trinity. For instance, Satan represents “vengeance instead of turning the other cheek” and “indulgence instead of abstinence” (Hickey, 2010). However, less than 5% of serial murder cases are linked to satanic worship or other cults (Hickey, 2010). Therefore, LaVey’s pronouncements might be provocative, but they have little relation to actual crime.
Reference
Hickey, E.W. (2010). Serial murderers and their victims. (5th ed.). Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.