There are several possible explanations for how people can hurt and deceive others while still believing they are good people and not feeling any guilt:
- Justification: People may justify their actions by convincing themselves that what they are doing is necessary or justified in some way. They may focus on the positive outcomes they believe they are achieving rather than the harm they are causing.
- Rationalization: People may rationalize their behavior by distorting their perception of reality to avoid the cognitive dissonance that would come with recognizing their actions as hurtful or unethical. This can include minimizing the harm caused or blaming others for their behavior.
- Lack of Empathy: Some people may lack empathy or the ability to feel the emotions of others, which makes it easier for them to hurt others without feeling guilty.
- Self-Interest: People may prioritize their self-interest above the well-being of others, leading them to engage in harmful or deceptive behavior without feeling guilty.
- Social Influence: People may be influenced by their social environments, such as peer pressure or societal norms, to engage in behaviors that they might not otherwise engage in.
It is important to note that people’s motivations and behaviors can be complex, and it is not always easy to understand why someone would act in a certain way. However, it is important to hold people accountable for their actions and to strive for empathy and understanding in all interactions.