The Subconscious Psychopath in American Psycho

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“Is evil something you are? Or is it something you do?” (Easton Ellis). Are we considered evil by our action or thoughts? If we are constantly contemplating evil and horrific thoughts but do not act upon them, the initial thoughts may still influence our unconscious minds, which can then, in turn, affect our conscious thoughts and actions indirectly. Compare that to those who act upon their evil thoughts and therefore are more authentic to their natural and uninfluenced personality. Humans are strongly related to our savage animal brothers; however we do everything in our means to appear separate and civilized. Regardless of our attempt at separation, we still remain savage beasts by nature and suppressing our natural state only makes our hidden savagery more apparent. The film American Psycho and philosopher Freud brings attention to examples in which the further we try to get from living like animals the more savage we become. In American Psycho, businessman Patrick Bateman is in a constant struggle to suppress his dark fantasies and put on a mask of sanity, which only leads to more frequent and elaborate fantasies. Freud also refers to many instances where his patients struggle with anxiety due to attempting to conceal past traumas instead of confronting it. The definition of a psychopath is a person with a personality disorder who lacks emotions (specifically shame, guilt and embarrassment), and one who will manipulate others for selfish means and have a very low frustration level which often leads to acts of aggression or violence. Throughout the American Psycho, key philosophical ideas valued by Freud arise. These being; the need for human emotion, the revelation that the American dream is artificial, and the authenticity ... ... middle of paper ... ... to reach a higher form of consciousness because they do not have to worry about the affect the libido has over the mind, and if they do chose to contemplate one's sex drive they can do it from a rational perspective. By then end of the film it is reveals that Patrick Bateman has made all of these murders up in his mind and has never actually killed anyone. As he falls further and further into his fantasy life it only feeds the belief that he is a destructive person. This shows the impact the subconscious has over the mind. We may try to provide ourselves with an illusion that we are in control of every aspect of our mind, but Freud explains that we cannot do that. Humans will always have a part of our lives that we have no control over, no matter how far we try to disregard this fact. We must address any issues we see as toxic instead of trying to dispose of them.

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