The Saviour Complex
Psychology uses the term saviour complex to describe a pattern in which some people live under the illusion that they are heroes rescuing the world. They may sacrifice their time, effort, and future for the sake of that illusion. In a society full of problems and calamities, there must always—apparently—be a “saviour.” Perhaps one reason this complex exists is that some people deeply want to feel heroic.
The feeling is undeniably tempting. Imagine that you are the star of your community. You are the hero. You advise people about truth and direct them toward goodness and what is right. Your word is heard, and everyone treats it as an unquestionable command. You possess the solution to every problem, while everyone waits for you to graciously reveal those solutions.
And how much more alluring when the matter involves sectarian controversy accompanied by mockery of the beliefs, doctrines, or rites held by part of the audience.
But the devil lies in the details of this advice and this desire to rescue. Hidden within it may be a tendency to look down on others, implicitly accusing them of being unable to help themselves, helpless, or deceived. Strangely, some people are deeply impressed by this “sacrifice,” even though it may also be a sacrifice made for personal benefit.
Where Does the Problem Begin?
The problem is that people playing the role of saviour merge themselves with the solution they present. They claim that they alone understand religion correctly. Any attempt to discuss or challenge them is therefore treated as an argument against religion itself.
A person who plays this role may be unaware of how personal ideas and desires are exerting influence. The person simply believes that there is a duty to prevent bad things from happening within the group and uses that duty to justify whatever is done—even when the resulting behaviour contradicts the very religion supposedly being defended.
The person feels that an urgent mission must be accomplished, whatever the cost.
If the person you are dealing with is intelligent, that person may possess enough skill to blend religious teaching and divine command convincingly with personal desires, unresolved struggles, and the need for self-gratification.
If you find yourself in a discussion—or a long series of arguments—with such a person, believe me: the discussion would often be better left unstarted. It is likely to consume time and effort without producing any meaningful result.
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