>>95685275"The cases in "Fun With Veal" and "Good Times With Weapons", in which Kyle agrees with Cartman's plan to murder Butters, show that what Kyle truly cares about, is his own advantage. The "strong responsibility" is also a part of that. Kyle wants to stand the morally high ground because he feels comfortable in that position, because being righteous is what initially makes Kyle feel good about himself. But in cases where he is powerless to change anything - he chooses the most comfortable way out. Example: in season 20, when Kyle can't convince Cartman to "take care" of Butters, Kyle simply joins Butters. He picks the most comfortable position for himself. Just like breaking Cartman's electronics was the most appealing thing to do.
So here is Cartman's role in all of this:
a) A force he can oppose to prove himself as a good person. b) Kyle's only source of motivation. c) A person which Kyle desperately wants to make better.
Point a. is obvious. Point b. can be seen in S20, S21E03 and many other episodes which portray Kyle doing something in order to stop/under the influence of Cartman. And point c... Point c. is how Kyle always gives Cartman chances.
"That's exactly what I wanted to hear from you all along." - S07E11
"You can change things about yourself." - S14E08
"Admit you're lying, and I'll let you go." - S16E04
He always does that. He cried over the fact that he mistakenly assumed Cartman was guilty in S20E02. He was the only one to apologize. He cares. For some reason, he simply cares."
