The serial killer Gary Gilmore summed up the attitude of…
““The serial killer Gary Gilmore summed up the attitude of someone without moral feelings: “I was always capable of murder.… I can become totally devoid of feelings of others, unemotional. I know I’m doing something grossly fucking wrong. I can still go ahead and do it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A serial killer can detach from empathy, recognizing wrongdoing yet proceeding, illustrating extreme moral disengagement.
In simple terms: Moral disengagement allows wrongdoing despite awareness.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and counteract moral disengagement.
Themes
psychology
ethics
empathy
crime
Mood
disturbing
analytical
clinical
Type
psychological
ethical
When to use this quote
- criminal profiling
- ethical training
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
moral psychology
cognitive dissonance
behavioral control
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms prevent moral disengagement?
- How can empathy be cultivated?
A Different Perspective
Even aware individuals can act immorally without checks.