The
self-evident meaning of OUTLAW
is someone who acts outside the law. If one understands and lives within the
confines of the law, all is well. The problem arises with sociopaths or people who
live by a personal, conflicting interpretation of the law.
Acting
outside of God’s law, Cain slew his brother Abel. One of the most infamous
outlaws of America’s Old West, Jesse James, spent much of his life on the wrong
side of the law. Were Jesse and Cain psycho/sociopaths who cared for no one else?
Cain
may have fallen into that category. Jesse James loved his wife and children, however,
or so the story goes. Did he interpret the law to his benefit, strongly believing
that he had the right to take whatever he wanted, including lives, at the
expense of others?
Baby
Face Nelson’s life ended before his 26th birthday, his short life taken by the
same violence he reveled in dishing out. Is J. Edgar Hoover’s portrayal of him as a killer without a conscience accurate? Or was killing an addiction for him?
Semantics
aside, ‘Outlaw’ and ‘Criminal’ are not synonymous to those who applaud the charismatic
antics of historical figures such as Robin Hood.
A well reasoned post. Thanks for checking out my blog, and best of luck with the rest of the A-Z challenge.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Michael. We are over half way through, should be all down hill from here!
ReplyDeleteOf course my favorite Outlaws are Jessi Colter, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson....You guys have my respect for keeping up with the challenge!
ReplyDeleteInteresting thoughts on Outlaws and socio/psychopaths. I often wonder if the ordinary outlaw does have a concience. I know the other doesn't.
ReplyDeleteI love the stupid crooks stories. They just make me shake my head.
ReplyDeleteCrooks and criminals are as multidimensional as the next guy.
The psychology behind criminals and outlaws is so fasicnating because there's not a hard and fast rule. People have their own unique motives.
ReplyDeleteOh, my gosh, Lara, I love those outlaws too!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to everyone who is continuing on with the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I will see you on your blog sites!
Hi Gail -- You have some very interesting articles in your A to Z series. I'm going to go read some more.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Patricia. I liked your Polar Bear post also. You have a great A to Z Wish list: http://patriciastoltey.blogspot.com/2012/04/p-is-for-polar-bear-my-to-z-wish-list.html
ReplyDeleteAwesome interview! thanks for share it with us!
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