Why Do People Tear Others Down?

Song: “Honor One Another” by Faith & Wealth Music

“Why do people tear others down” is a profound question, and it touches on both human nature and Christian character.

At one level, people disparage others because comparison is one of the easiest ways to soothe insecurity. 

If a person feels inadequate, overlooked, unsuccessful, or angry, criticizing someone else can provide a temporary sense of superiority. 

The problem is that it doesn’t actually solve the underlying issue. It is a counterfeit form of self-worth.

Scripture recognizes this tendency. 

When the disciples argued about who was the greatest, Jesus redirected them away from comparison and toward humility. 

When the Pharisee prayed, “God, I thank you that I am not like other men” (Luke 18:11, ESV), Jesus used that example to show the danger of elevating ourselves by looking down on others.

Regarding public figures, athletes, politicians, entertainers, or former leaders, there is an additional dynamic. 

Criticizing a well-known person often brings attention. 

A person can gain applause, headlines, or social media engagement by attacking someone famous. In today’s culture, outrage has become a form of entertainment.

From a Christian perspective, the question is not whether we agree with every action of a public figure. 

Christians can disagree strongly with policies, decisions, or behaviors. The question is how we express disagreement.

The Apostle Paul writes:

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion.” (Ephesians 4:29, ESV)

And Peter reminds believers:

“Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless.” (1 Peter 3:9, ESV)

Notice that neither passage requires agreement. 

Rather, they require dignity.

So, what should be the response of Christians or people with a positive moral compass?

1. Refuse to join the insult

When a crowd is mocking someone, it takes character not to participate. Christians should avoid becoming part of the chorus of ridicule, even when it is popular.

2. Separate criticism from contempt

It is legitimate to critique ideas, policies, decisions, or actions. It is not necessary to attack a person’s dignity to do so.

3. Examine our own hearts

Jesus said:

“For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34, ESV)

When we hear harsh attacks, it is worth asking ourselves whether we are tempted to enjoy them simply because they are directed at someone we dislike.

4. Model respect

A Christian’s speech should demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit—especially kindness, gentleness, and self-control. Those qualities are often most visible when emotions are running high.

5. Pray for those involved

Whether the target is a former First Lady, a politician, an athlete, or anyone else, Christians are called to pray for people rather than delight in their humiliation.

One principle I often return to is this: Character is revealed not by how we treat people we admire, but by how we speak about people we dislike. 

Anyone can show respect to friends. 

Moral maturity is shown when we extend basic human dignity even to those with whom we strongly disagree.

As a Believer in GOD, you may appreciate that this reflects the image-of-God principle in Genesis. 

Every person bears God’s image. 

That does not make every action right, but it does mean every person deserves a measure of respect that rises above mockery and personal contempt.