Is everyone all good or all bad?

Probably the answer is that human beings are complex: they have some good points and some faults. There is no human who is perfect all the time; even a person who seems really saintly might have some flaws or have a bad day now and then. Similarly, there are not many people who are 100% bad, although it may seem that way at times, especially when we read about the lives of violent criminals. However, we do not know how they were when they were children, and their behaviors may have gotten worse as time went on.

There are some people who believe a person can be born bad, but there is not a lot of clear evidence that this is true. Actually, there are many factors that influence what kind of behaviors you will learn, and which determine whether you will act in a positive or a negative way. Among the strongest influences in how you turn out are your genetic background, how your parents raised you, and the influence of your peers, the media, your neighborhood, and your religion.

While some religions believe humans are born sinful, others believe they are born with a tendency to sin, and others believe humans are a blank slate and can choose how to act. Most religions do agree that everyone has some good in them, and even a bad person can repent and change. Many religions and philosophies stress the importance of living a life that is focused on ethical behavior, honesty, and courtesy towards others. Unfortunately, not everyone will do the right thing, but that does not mean they are a totally bad person. Human beings will change their attitudes and beliefs at different times, as new influences affect their life. So, no, there is not much proof that people are either all good or all bad.