[higgmeister]

The converse theory would be that they have kept the same traits that got them branded as witches and that self-destructive behavior is the thing that holds them back.

[Dr. Sivana]

And maybe some of them ARE witches.

From Brigadoon:
Mr. Lundie: Two hundred years ago, the highlands of Scotland were plagued with witches, wicked sorcerers that were taking the Scottish people away from the teachings of God and putting the Devil into their souls. They were indeed horrible destructive women. I dinna suppose you have such women in your country?
Tommy Albright: Witches?
Jeff Douglas: Oh we have 'em. We pronounce it differently.