In the novel "American Psycho" by Bret Easton Ellis and its subsequent film adaptation, Patrick Bateman is depicted as a wealthy and successful Wall Street investment banker who also happens to be a psychopathic serial killer. One of the central themes of the story is the superficiality and shallowness of the 1980s yuppie culture, which creates an environment where people often overlook or dismiss Bateman's violent outbursts and disturbing behavior.
There are several reasons why Bateman's outbursts and violent tirades go unnoticed or ignored:
Social Masking: Patrick Bateman is a master of social camouflage. He portrays himself as a charming, handsome, and successful individual, which allows him to blend in with his social circle seamlessly. His ability to wear a mask of normalcy conceals his true psychopathic nature.
Preoccupation with Superficiality: The world in which Bateman operates is obsessed with superficial appearances, status symbols, and materialism. People around him are more concerned with expensive fashion, trendy restaurants, and social standing than with delving into the deeper aspects of his personality.
Disbelief and Denial: Bateman's violent behavior is so extreme and shocking that people around him find it difficult to believe that such a charming and successful individual could be capable of such heinous acts. They might dismiss any hints or evidence of his dark side as a mere joke or exaggeration.
Lack of Empathy in Others: Interestingly, many of the characters in the story display a similar lack of empathy and concern for others, mirroring some aspects of Bateman's own psychopathic traits. This lack of empathy in his social circle contributes to their failure to recognize his violent tendencies.
Satirical Commentary: The novel "American Psycho" serves as a satirical critique of the excessive consumerism and moral emptiness of the yuppie culture of the 1980s. By depicting Bateman's violent behavior going unnoticed and unacknowledged, the story highlights the shallow and indifferent nature of the society in which he lives.
It's important to remember that "American Psycho" is a work of fiction, and the characters and situations are exaggerated for dramatic effect and social commentary. In reality, psychopathic behavior and violence are taken seriously by society, and individuals who exhibit such tendencies should be reported to the appropriate authorities and receive appropriate psychological evaluation and treatment.