Written by: M. Scott Peck, MD
First line: This is a dangerous book.
Why you should read this book: The central thesis of this
work proposes a new diagnostic category of neurosis, in which evil should be
considered a subset of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Using a small number
of case studies, the author describes individuals who, due to extreme
selfishness, lack of self-examination, and some other, inexplicable delight in
irritating other people, literally suck the life and liveliness out of those
around them. The narrative also includes a discussion of the author’s personal
experience with Satan, as witnessed in two successful exorcisms, along with a
look at group evil, as seen in the Mylai Massacre, and offers a short summary
of what such a diagnosis would mean for psychological professionals at large.
Why you shouldn’t read this book: Even the most open-minded
secular reader is likely to experience intense skepticism throughout the
chapter on exorcism, which tends to diminish some of the argument.
No comments:
Post a Comment