Asahi Shimbun Morning Edition, November 20, 1999
Recently, the word "revenge" is frequently heard. It means retaliation. When we hear the term "revenge killing," it sounds like a horrifying act. However, in the sense that there is a cause and a retaliatory response, it is a crime that is easy to understand. No matter how extraordinarily brutal the act may be, since it is a planned crime, it is extremely rare for a court ruling to determine that the perpetrator lacked criminal responsibility.
The 1991 film Cape Fear—which has been mentioned multiple times in this column—features Robert De Niro in an intense portrayal of a vengeful man. The story follows a man convicted of sexual assault who harbors a deep grudge against his lawyer for allegedly failing to present evidence that could have worked in his favor. Upon his release from prison, he seeks revenge against the lawyer and his family. While in prison, he strengthens his body and sharpens his mind through reading, all for the purpose of exacting his revenge.
A similar film was made in 1961, in which Robert Mitchum played the vengeful character who pursued Gregory Peck. There are countless films that revolve around the theme of revenge, including Japanese katakiuchi (vendetta) stories.
In contrast to the calculated nature of revenge, crimes committed by individuals with severe mental disorders are characterized by a lack of comprehensible motive. Though they may be driven by baseless jealousy or delusions, their acts are typically unrelated to material gain, status, or honor.
The aggression of individuals with mental illnesses is overwhelmingly directed toward themselves. Studies report that 15% of people with mood disorders and 10% of those with psychotic disorders die by suicide over the course of their illness.
Revenge can sometimes stem from wounds to one's self-esteem or pride. People who are trapped by conspiracies or deceit may also seek retribution.
In the 21st century, the aggressiveness hidden within the vengeful hearts of ordinary people will undoubtedly become an important issue in mental health. In Western countries, workplace bullying has already begun to gain attention as a major factor that significantly reduces productivity.
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