Why Incels and Bundy, Gacy: The Role of Attraction and Choice in Relationships

Introduction

The narrative surrounding individuals labeled as "incels" (involuntarily single) often delves into the idea that their inability to secure romantic relationships must be due to their attitudes or behaviors. However, this perspective overlooks the complexities of human relationships, which do not solely depend on a person's character or looks. This article explores the role of individual choices and personal agency in forming relationships, using the cases of serial killers Ted Bundy and John Gacy as illustrateive examples.

Understanding Incels and the Myth of an "Incels" Subculture

1. The Misconception of "Incels"

First and foremost, there is no distinct "incel" subculture that exists under a singular, consistent definition. The term "incels" is often applied to individuals by others who feel they identify with the characteristics of involuntary singleness, which may include feelings of rejection, social anxiety, or perceived unworthiness. However, these individuals do not form a cohesive or organized group but rather a loosely defined collection of individuals who share some commonalities.

2. The Importance of Personal Attitude and Choices

Secondly, it is crucial to understand that a person's attitude or characteristics do not necessarily dictate their ability to form a relationship. For instance, a man with a less-than-nice attitude might find himself in a position to have sex or form a relationship if the woman involved is willing to overlook his perceived flaws. This dynamic is not unique to "incels" but applies to many people.

Similarly, a woman may find herself attracted to a man despite his less-than-stellar attitude because of his physical appearance, charm, or other factors. The assumption that a man's attitude determines his likelihood of having a girlfriend is oversimplified and does not account for the complexities of human behavior and attraction.

The Cases of Ted Bundy and John Gacy

1. Ted Bundy: Attraction and Deception

Ted Bundy, while known for his shocking crimes, was indeed physically good-looking, charming, and intelligent. However, his ability to establish relationships did not stem from a need for love but rather from the allure of power and control. Bundy's attractiveness and charisma were not sufficient to gain genuine, long-term relationships with women. Instead, his ability to form relationships was often a result of his ability to deceive and charm his targets, leading them to overlook his true nature.

2. John Gacy: The Face of Hypocrisy

John Gacy was a serial killer known for his distorted personality and sociopathic tendencies. Despite his criminal activities, he was able to form relationships. Gacy's ability to establish friendships and casual romances might be attributed to his ability to fake warmth and kindness. However, these relationships were underpinned by his manipulative nature, rather than any positive qualities he possessed.

The Role of Perception and Choice

Individuals can make choices that impact their relationships, regardless of their initial characteristics. People may be kind to others even if those others are not nice, as a form of self-protection or as a personal choice. Simultaneously, individuals can be mean to others, not because of any specific cause, but simply due to their inherent nature or choices. These dynamics are not seated in any moral imperative but are instead manifestations of personal choice and behavior.

Conclusion

The cases of Ted Bundy and John Gacy highlight the complexity of human relationships. A person's ability to form relationships is a multifaceted issue that involves a combination of attraction, personal choice, and perception. It is important to recognize that individual agency and personal choice play a significant role, and not to oversimplify the issue by attributing it to a singular factor like attitude or appearance.

References

[1] Judd, P. (2002). Ted Bundy: A Chronology of a Serial Killer. Crucial Books.

[2] Bird, P. J. (2001). John Wayne Gacy and the Politics of Evil: A Cultural Sociology of a Contemporary Serial Killer. ABC-CLIO.