Since the imagination of evil encourages us to do real evil, how should we react to accounts from the media or elsewhere about monstrous evil in our neighborhood or elsewhere in the world?
Your premise is false, therefore, accounts in media of evil should have no effect on a Godly man.
I question the premise that imagination of evil encourages us to do real evil. For instance, in Puritan times, preachers encouraged the congregants to imagine evil in order to scare them. But there's no evidence that the Puritans did any more evil than anyone else -- and probably less.
That said, the obvious reaction to news of monstrous evil is to ignore it and imagine pure goodness.
How about instead of being influenced by evil, you combat it.
Think of all the charities, all the societies, all the non profit organizations that are instituted to combat evil and harm.
Educate people in the ways to prevent evil, turn a blind eye to the influences of it.
(ex. Mother Teresa)
- I am not a godly man, but I am still a man that believes in right and wrong.
Evil IS, it is not imagined, just as GOOD is. These have nothing to do with whether one believes in a "God" or not. When a person deliberately seeks to do harm to others that is "evil". As I have told kids for the 100+ years I have been teaching, there is enough accidental pain in the world, one does not need to deliberately set out to inflict pain on others... "I didn't mean to" is reponded to with, "then mean NOT to".
When encountering accounts from the media or elsewhere about monstrous evil in our neighborhood or elsewhere in the world, it is important to approach them with a critical mindset and consider a few key steps in order to respond effectively:
1. Verify the information: In today's digital age, misinformation and fake news are prevalent. It is crucial to verify the credibility and authenticity of the sources before forming an opinion or deciding on a course of action. Cross-check the information from multiple reliable sources to ensure its accuracy.
2. Analyze the perspective and bias: Different media outlets may have different agendas and biases. Try to identify the underlying tone, motives, or narratives being presented in the accounts. Consider seeking out diverse viewpoints to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.
3. Empathize and understand: It is crucial to empathize with the victims and try to understand the human impact of the evil being reported. This helps to cultivate compassion and a deeper grasp of the situation rather than falling into a cycle of fear or anger.
4. Take action: Instead of allowing the imagination of evil to discourage or paralyze us, it is important to channel our reactions into constructive action. This can include educating others, supporting organizations working towards positive change, or engaging in community initiatives that address the root causes of such evil. Taking action allows us to contribute to a more just and compassionate society.
5. Promote awareness and dialogue: Evil thrives in silence and ignorance. By promoting awareness and engaging in respectful dialogue, we can raise awareness about issues of concern, challenge misinformation, and discuss potential solutions. Engage in conversations with others, both offline and online, to foster a more informed and responsible community.
Remember, reacting to monstrous evil requires active engagement rather than passive desensitization. By critically evaluating information, understanding different perspectives, and taking constructive action, we can contribute towards a more compassionate and just society.