7 Deadly Sins(By: Carys)

 
I recently watched 7 Deadly Sins, a compelling film that explores seven real-life criminal cases where perpetrators claimed divine inspiration from “gods,” though their actions were undeniably human. Far from a horror movie, it’s an educational narrative that highlights moral values, illustrating how good deeds may lead to salvation, as in religious notions of heaven, while evil acts invite condemnation, akin to hell. This raises a profound question: does labeling actions as good or evil effectively guide moral behavior, or should we rethink these categories?

  The answer is complex. Some argue that emphasizing good and evil fosters moral judgment and social order, while others believe these labels oversimplify human behavior. Good deeds—such as honesty, kindness, courage, and cooperation—promote well-being, while bad deeds, like dishonesty, selfishness, or cruelty, cause harm. However, dispensing with these labels poses challenges and opportunities.

  First, good and evil are subjective, varying across cultures and individuals. For example, in 7 Deadly Sins, a cult leader’s charity was seen as virtuous by followers but manipulative by outsiders. This subjectivity can lead to moral relativism, where one society’s good is another’s evil, complicating universal ethical standards. Yet, relativism encourages tolerance, urging us to respect diverse perspectives and recognize that no single moral framework is absolute.

  Second, focusing on actions rather than labels offers a nuanced view of morality. In the film, perpetrators performed both benevolent and harmful acts, showing that people are complex, not simply good or evil. Judging actions by their consequences—such as whether they promote well-being or cause harm—avoids stereotypes, promotes accountability, and encourages ethical behavior. For instance, a person might donate to charity yet lie to gain a job, highlighting the need to evaluate specific actions over blanket labels.

  Third, moving beyond good and evil fosters empathy. By understanding the motivations behind actions, even those depicted as evil in 7 Deadly Sins, we develop compassion. Empathy, linked to kindness and cooperation, drives altruistic behavior, as seen when individuals in the film act out of misguided loyalty. Recognizing these complexities builds a more compassionate society.

  Finally, transcending good and evil labels can promote self-acceptance. Constantly judging actions such as good or evil can lead to self-deception or resentment. The film suggests that viewing actions as part of a cause-and-effect system, rather than inherently good or evil, fosters inner peace and a balanced perspective.

  In conclusion, 7 Deadly Sins shows that while good and evil labels can guide morality, they risk oversimplification. By focusing on actions, embracing empathy, and recognizing subjectivity, we can navigate ethical dilemmas more effectively, choosing solutions that promote well-being in diverse contexts.