Personal Beliefs
Personal beliefs might be one of the biggest reasons that the film ended the way it did. Instead of everyone believing Bateman as he told them what had happened, they all laughed it off, following their perception of what had happened, instead of listening to what he had to say. Because they don’t listen to what people have to say from their point of view, their views are lacking, thus letting a murderer, rapist, and a sadist loose.
Appearances
Appearance is an important word for any psychopath. This is because the appearance of things can be so severely different from the truth. Playing off of this truth is how Bateman managed to become as liked and respected as he was, while keeping his horrible fantasies to himself, balancing both his lives comfortably.
Jealousy
Jealousy was what drove Bateman to kill most of his male victims. When he became jealous a rage filled him that made him want to kill everyone and everything he encountered. Had he learned to control this emotion; the story might have been very different. Being a psychopath made all his emotions heightened, and as he lacked empathy for others, the mix became deadly.
Materialism
Patrick (the main character) yearns for luxury goods and is seen as having a high status. He acquires designer wear and dines at high-end restaurants, although it is evident that beneath this, he is a superficial individual.
Identity
Patrick hides his murderous self behind the facade of a New York City investment banker. He is seen as superficial due to his materialistic tendencies, although he presents himself as charming and successful.
