No man on earth is sinless. We see, hear and experience the many acts of humankind in our lifetime, from making donations to a children’s charity to protests against governing authorities to brutal blood-spilling murders and homicides. Being creatures with the highest intellect and empathy on earth, it is no surprise that we spearhead technological inventions while championing for peace and kindness to better the human race. However, these glorious acts are never able to sugar-coat the evil that we bring to the world. Wars, murders, pollution. Destruction, slavery, deceits. Indubitably, with great power comes great evil and danger. Hence, it could be true that of all creatures on earth, man is the most dangerous.
With the human brain being the most sophisticated, there are not only beneficial ideas and empathetic thoughts that stem from it, but also deceitful ploys and selfish schemes. With our ability to think deeper and further, it is only natural for us to come up with plans and ideas that benefit ourselves most. We can hide our true feelings behind an ever-smiling façade, masking the boiling anger or hatred towards someone while plotting revenge against them. We trick and deceive, manipulate and finagle. This undesirable human nature is portrayed in many ways, from the familiar fable, ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf’ to spies who carry out espionage during the World Wars. Therefore, with the capacity of our brains to hatch evil plans, we never know when someone is plotting against us. Hence, with our power to lie, man becomes the most dangerous creature on earth.
Not only do we have the capability to think dangerously, we also have the assets to bring to action our malicious plans. Unlike primitive animals that rely solely on their basic instincts and simple tools, humans are able to hatch a plan, carry it out successfully and cause harm to others around us. From arsons to murders and rapes to homicides, these are all seedlings of man’s evil that grew into full blossoming flowers of sin. When fuelled with selfishness, spite and malevolence, nefarious ideas are even more likely to be brought to reality. The Whitechapel murders committed by the unidentified Jack the Ripper are an apt portrayal of just how much disaster and danger one person could bring. Like adding wood to a burning flame, it is entirely possible for people to hide away from their true intentions, such that it would have been too late when victims comprehend the danger brought upon them. Therefore, the ability of man to carry out malevolent acts of crime and sin causes us to be the most dangerous creatures on earth.
However, the fate of humankind is not solely dependent on the sufferings that we bring to the world. More often than not, pockets of kindness and graciousness are evident in our daily undertakings. These desirable acts of man are even more conspicuous during times of crisis like the current Covid-19 pandemic, which saw voluntary groups doing their best to shed warmth and comfort to those in need. The non-profit organisation in Singapore, It’s Raining Rainbows, made it their mission to provide free food and phone data cards to foreign workers quarantined in dormitories, reminding them that there are people who care for their health and well-being. When we render our services, time and effort towards genuine, selfless acts, we reassure ourselves that the human heart bears the fruits of love, care and concern. Perhaps it is only when we learn to work for the greater good that we are willing to be vulnerable for the sake of others, to help, encourage and love those around us, at our own expense. Then, man will be the opposite of dangerous. Man will be kind. Mankind.
The human heart is split in two. There will never be compassion without narcissism, kindness without hostility, love without hate. Although it is true that mankind is capable of evil thoughts and actions, there is always a tint of light in our souls. Deep down, love assumes her rightful throne and reminds us constantly of the good traits that set us apart from other creatures on earth. Only when we have experienced danger would we yearn for safety. Only when man realises his wrongdoings will peace prevail. Hence, man is a dangerous creature, but man can learn to change. To change for a better, more loving world.
picture credits: H Heyerlein, Antonio Gabola, Kelly Sikkema
This is a powerful article reflecting the Yin and Yang of the human heart and mind. Mindfulness, righteousness and boldness require constant reminder and practice. Towards being a kinder man.