This week's featured article explores one of television's most nuanced characters: Amos Burton from "The Expanse." What begins as a portrait of a violence-prone enforcer evolves into a profound examination of how childhood trauma shapes moral development and human connection.
Through this character study, the article delves into universal questions about morality in difficult circumstances, the psychological impact of trauma, and the struggle to become a better person despite deep internal wounds. Whether you're a fan of the show or simply interested in complex psychological analysis, this piece offers valuable insights into the resilience of the human spirit and our capacity for both violence and compassion.
The Expanse | Trauma and Violence: The Psychology of Amos Burton [Excerpt]
During the early episodes of The Expanse, Amos Burton (played by Wes Chatham) is portrayed as the resident muscle; Canterbury’s hardened mechanic who is unafraid of violence. In the second episode of the first season (‘The Big Empty’), Amos threatens to throw James Holden (Stephen Strait) out of an airlock for putting them all in danger:
“I can take a core apart and put it back together with my eyes closed. But ask me whether or not I should rip your helmet off and kick you off this bucket, and I couldn’t give you a reason why I should or shouldn’t. Except Naomi wouldn’t like it.”
However, as the series progresses, we learn more about his backstory and discover that Amos is not merely a psychotic thug. Instead, Amos is a survivor of child abuse, who is striving to overcome the mental trauma.
To read the full article, click below.
Peter Ray Allison
