Internalizing Evil

From Zanecorpwiki

I find the idea of evil as an external force as vexing. It's not so much the moral implications which we usually consider. I mean, I assume most people realize at some level the practical implication of removing responsibility and choice. There can be no morality without choice, etc.

Yes, that's an issue, but it doesn't really have any bite. The bigger problem is that external evil is harder to deal with. Dealing with external evil involves a negative act. Fighting, killing, that kind of thing. Even when necessary and justified, it leaves us less. It marks us.

Internal evil--evil that is within us--can be conquered through positive action. Forgiveness, transformation, acceptance. This is not limited to the bounds of the self, I can aid in the destruction of evil in others. They must be involved, but that's only to the good. This is the core of the idea that everyone can be redeemed. I find this highly positive and inspiring.

In some sense, this is the dichotomy of persuasion and coercion.