Satanism and Modern Eugenics: Revisiting the Complexities

Alright, we’re back at it. If you’ve been keeping up, you’ll remember the deep dive into modern eugenics we took in Modern Eugenics: Tinkering with Humanity, What Could Possibly Go Wrong? We covered the dark, twisted history of eugenics, the illusion of control with shiny tools like CRISPR, the risks to diversity, and the ethical landmines of deciding which traits are “desirable.” Now, let’s crank up the heat and see how Satanism, with its “me-first” attitude, fits—or doesn’t—into this whole mess.

Satanism and Social Darwinism: A Match Made in Hell?

Satanism doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to Social Darwinism. LaVey was crystal clear: life’s a cutthroat competition, and only the strong deserve to thrive. This philosophy doesn’t sugarcoat reality—it’s all about strength, self-preservation, and getting ahead, even if it means stepping over a few bodies along the way. Call it nature’s meritocracy on steroids. You succeed because you’re tougher, smarter, or faster—not because some cosmic force decided to cut you a break.

Modern Eugenics: A Different Beast

Now, let’s talk eugenics—but not your granddaddy’s version. Modern eugenics has ditched the ugly state-run programs and forced sterilizations (thank Satan). Today, it’s dressed up as “liberal eugenics,” where it’s all about personal choice. Think of it as genetic shopping—you’re picking traits for your future kids like you’re ordering off a menu. Positive eugenics is all about boosting desirable traits, while negative eugenics wants to dodge the undesirable ones. It’s wrapped up in the warm, fuzzy language of choice and freedom, but it’s still dancing around some old, dangerous ideas.

Where Do Satanic Principles Fit In?

So, would Satanism hitch a ride on the modern eugenics train? Not so fast. There are some big differences to keep in mind:

• Choice Over Coercion: Satanism is all about personal freedom and making your own damn choices. Nobody tells you what to do—especially not the state. This lines up more with liberal eugenics, where you call the shots. If you want to mess with your kid’s genetic makeup, that’s on you—but it’s your decision, not anyone else’s.
• Stick It to Authoritarianism: Sure, LaVey had a thing for law and order, but at its core, Satanism spits in the face of coercion. So, any kind of eugenics that shoves people into a corner? Hard pass. Satanism is about taking power, not giving it away.
• Ethics, Schmethics?: On the surface, Satanism’s self-interest might seem like it could back eugenics if it means boosting individual capability. But hold up—Satanism isn’t about buying into arbitrary moral codes. It’s about taking personal responsibility and making choices that suit you—not about cramming someone else’s idea of “perfection” down everyone’s throat. So, while there might be some overlap with eugenics, the devil’s in the details, and it’s not as clear-cut as it might seem.

A Nuanced Stance

So, here’s the deal: while Satanism might give a nod to the idea of eugenics, especially in its liberal, choice-driven form, it’s not throwing its full weight behind it. The philosophy’s all about individualism and flipping the bird to coercion, so it’s more likely to back personal reproductive choices—if that’s your jam—but not any forced or imposed standards. It’s about carving your own path, not following someone else’s blueprint for “perfection.” That’s the Satanic way.

As we circle back to this topic, keep in mind that whether you’re tinkering with humanity or wading through the murky waters of modern ethics, it all comes down to making your own informed choices and living life on your terms.