Psycopathology Vs cultural values and codes

Submitted by Guy Livnat (United States), Jul 27, 2008 at 03:27

Psychopathology is a trait subjectively defined by psychiatrists- in keeping with accepted norms of human behavior. By definition it is a qualitatively "abnormal" trait- and thus also objectionable.

No one has determined Kuntar is a Psychopath. I believe it is wrong to label him a psychopath. This man is an Idealist- who went on a mission and sacrificed his freedom for what he believes in.

Among every society- there are few which are idealists. These are the ones that do "what is right" as opposed to do what is convenient.

Kuntar is thus a true Arab hero- for he chose the path of ideal as opposed to the path of convenience.

In the same light- Islamic terrorists (aka "extremists") are in fact Islamic "idealists". This is why their respective societies do jot reject them- but idealize them.

Kuntar, Ben Laden, Zarkawi and all the rest are in fact "Arab Idealists"- and not terrorists or psychopaths or criminals. Thus- they are worshiped by Arabs everywhere. they are Heroes in their respective society.

In modern western society- where language is such a formidable tool-It would serve us well to use descriptions more accurately - as opposed to more "acceptingly"

I think it would be beneficial for us to incorporate this understanding into our line of thought- so that we realize more accurately what is happening around us

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