Selfishness in Modern Life: A Look at Trends and Consequences
Are people becoming more self-centered and selfish in today's modern life? This question echoes through numerous discussions and reflections, often accompanied by a sense of alarm. Edward Barzoon, the character in The Devil's Advocate, serves as a timeless reminder of the potential consequences of our egregious self-absorption.
Trends of Selfishness in America
The United States has not significantly reduced its overall level of selfishness for several decades. In fact, one could argue that the trend has shifted in such a way that commonplace individualism now takes center stage, particularly within the political arena.
Ironically, existential despair may be one driving force behind this trend. People are often more comfortable engaging in fictional narratives and delusions of comfort and control rather than facing the hardships of real life and character development. This preference for a prettier fiction arises from the fear of facing the real struggles and complexities of existence.
The Character of Eddie Barzoon
Edward Barzoon, a central character from The Devil's Advocate, encapsulates the spirit of modern self-worship and utmost self-interest. John Milton, delivering his monologue, paints a vivid picture of Barzoon's personality and the environment that has shaped him.
Barzoon's Transformation and Characteristics
Milton's discourse illustrates a pattern of grooming someone to be a paragon of self-interest and greed. Barzoon's journey from a human being to a megalomaniacal figure is a stark commentary on the human condition. The question arises: Where do these people come from? The answer, according to Milton, is a society that exacerbates human desires to the point where we can "split atoms with [our] desire." Societies that build "egos the size of cathedrals" and connect the world with "every-eager-impulse" are breeding grounds for such individuals.
The Quest for Unchecked Ego
The pursuit of unchecked ego and excessive ambition is illustrated through the metaphor of elegantly fancy fantasies fueling ambitions. These fantasies are so powerful that every human aspires to be an "aspiring emperor," each becoming their own god. This pursuit escalates rapidly, leading to an interconnected global system driven by frenzied deals and a fixation on immediate gratification.
The Rapid Pace of Change
Global changes are occurring so rapidly that there is little time for thoughtful reflection. The consequences of these rapid shifts become evident only when it's too late - when the air thickens, water sours, and even honey takes on a radioactive metallic taste. In such a world, the focus is on short-term gains, like "buying futures" and "selling futures," where there is no future to speak of.
Alone in a Crowd
The Devil's Advocate likens humanity to a "runaway train," with each person jogging into the future, ready to engage in billable hours and self-aggrandizement. By the time the reality hits, it's too late to change course - the belly is full, the dick is sore, the eyes are bloodshot, and there is no one to help.
Conclusion
The trend of increasing selfishness in modern life is a complex issue, with roots in cultural, economic, and psychological factors. As Edward Barzoon serves as a tragic figure in a film that warns of the dangers of unchecked ambition, we must ponder the consequences of our actions today. It is imperative that we strive to balance our individual desires with collective responsibility, ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for all.