Are Humans Hardwired to Hate? Not If They Reflect

Hate is a destructive force in any society, leaving behind long-term consequences. Across the globe, we see countless examples of how hate harms not only its targets but also those who have used it. Throughout history, religious and philosophical traditions rarely endorse hate as a virtue. Yet people often rationalize it, selectively interpret facts to justify it, or act on it without fully understanding why.

Could we be hardwired to hate?

A philosopher thinkng about the nature of
hate. "No one is hated more than
he who speaks the truth"-Plato

Some argue that hate is innate to the human experience, a survival trait that once helped early humans distinguish between tribes or competing groups. But in modern societies—built on principles, laws, and shared values—this primitive instinct offers little benefit. Failing to recognize the destructive nature of hate, and its ability to distort the thinking of entire groups, risks allowing it to resurface whenever conditions such as corruption, bias, or group preference create fertile ground.

Whether hate is hardwired into us or it arises from a misapplication of perception mixed with darker traits is not the core issue. History shows that humans have repeatedly justified horrendous behaviors under its influence. They also have been known to do wonderful things. If individuals—and especially leaders no matter the land—committed to honest reflection, we would be less likely to let hate find a pathway for prehistoric urges.

Avoiding the pitfalls of hate requires self-examination. Taking even a few moments to ask whether hostile feelings stem from genuine faults in others, or from one’s own unresolved issues, can be revealing. Clarity comes only by seeking the full scope of information and aligning perception with reality. Reflection often shows that people have been socialized to see flaws in those they label as “the other,” while overlooking the flaws within themselves. Even if it just a speck. Recognizing our shared humanity helps dissolve these false divisions.

Are Humans Hardwired to Hate?