One fascinating issue that we are exploring as part of the LANP is the neural underpinnings of psychopathy. Led by Kent Kiehl--who did his PhD at UBC with Robert Hare of PCL-R fame--this research has the potential to not only further our understanding of the psychopathic mind, but also to change our perception of their moral and legal culpability. With the assistance of a mobile fMRI, Kiehl and his associates have already scanned more than 700+ incarcerated psychopaths.
Given both how disproportionally violent psychopaths are and how little we can currently do for them in terms of treatment, this research could have several policy implications. As such, this is an issue that will recur on this blog in the months and years to come. For now, I thought it might be helpful to provide readers with some links to interesting articles, books, and videos about psychopathy:
- Robert Hare, Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psycopaths Among Us.
- Robert Hare, Snakes in Suits: When Psychopaths Go to Work.
- Hervey Cleckley's ground-breaking The Mask of Sanity (out of print).
- Special Volume of Neuroethics dedicated to psychopathy.
- The New Yorker article on Kiehl's research entitled "Suffering Souls."
- Video on psychopathy and brain imaging--although it is admittedly outdated.
- Articles on forensic psychologist Park Dietz can be found here and here.
- Scientific American Mind article entitled, "What 'Psychopath' Means."
