General Discussion

It is very interesting that phenomenon exists. If psychopathy is binary and not a spectrum of 'something', I'd expect there to be no switch between lies and manipulation from murder from torture. Just, as you say, acting on a object/prop.

I guess I knew the answer to my own question, but it is so weird. Like, hurting an animal is so deeply, viscerally evil to me. I can't imagine the mind of someone that would inflict pain for ... X Y Z

Regarding the kid, yeah, I don't know either way so I am going to assume the best because it'll make me happier and won't make a difference in any other respect. So, from my perspective, the kid grew up and he grew some empathy circuitry. Or pruned some impulse centers.

Very tough psychological, philosophical, theological, and clinical problem. Maybe the fundamental one of civilization.

My parents always taught me to be a good person first, but I'd like to believe I would be even if they didn't.

Wow, very challenging thread this.