I'm serious.
- Thread starter The Catalyst
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I don't think a sociopath/psychopath means that. It's more about caring only about yourself due to total lack of empathy, viewing other people as objects, not understanding morals or norms, etc.Datalord said:
They don't have any restraints for violence or mental abuse, other than fear of punishment (something that might drive them into positions of power).
Oh. Well, if that's the hallmark trait, then I suppose not. Can one be a psychopath without being a criminal, murderer, you name it? Is it possible for a psychopath to function normally in society? I mean, that you don't have empathy or emotions doesn't mean you'll go around killing people. It's more likely since there is no empathy from preventing you to do so, but it's hardly a reason.Slycne said:
That's actually a matter of some debate in psychological circles at the moment. Part of the definition of Anti-Social Personality Disorder (different from psychopathy, but I seem to remember it is more or less impossible to have a diagnosis of psychopathy without meeting the criteria for APD), the person must have had a criminal history. However, if you remove that aspect from the criteria, it can fit SOME people in high business or politics.Ekonk said:
So, technically no, you can't be a psychopath without being a criminal. But that may change.
I don't know, I mean I'm a Misanthropic Nihilist but I still feel - if only for one person, but I suppose that is a different ballgame.
Keeping in mind that I'm not a psychologist: Yes. Psychopathy is the inability to feel empathy and a lack of conscience. You can still love someone even if you can't empathize with them.
However, as the psychopath has no conscience and doesn't empathize with anyone, it could theoretically be dangerous to be that close to him. Granted, he's not likely to kill you for no reason unless he's a sadist, but he's not going to go out of his way to help you, and woill be willing to do anything he wants.
To clear things up (again, as best as I understand): All psychopaths aren't murderous wackos. They can have objections to murder- just not moral ones. (A psychopath wouldn't feel bad about killing someone, but he might not want to get arrested, or he might not like the sight of blood). And he does have emotions, just not ones triggered by empathy.
However, as the psychopath has no conscience and doesn't empathize with anyone, it could theoretically be dangerous to be that close to him. Granted, he's not likely to kill you for no reason unless he's a sadist, but he's not going to go out of his way to help you, and woill be willing to do anything he wants.
To clear things up (again, as best as I understand): All psychopaths aren't murderous wackos. They can have objections to murder- just not moral ones. (A psychopath wouldn't feel bad about killing someone, but he might not want to get arrested, or he might not like the sight of blood). And he does have emotions, just not ones triggered by empathy.