The anatomy of violence

Description

In this book a pioneering neurocriminologist introduces the latest biological research into the causes of, and potential cures for, criminal behavior. As a leading criminologist who specializes in the neuroscience behind criminal behavior, the author introduces a wide range of new scientific research into the origins and nature of violence and criminal behavior. He explains how impairments to areas of the brain that control our ability to experience fear, make decisions, and feel empathy can make us more likely to engage in criminal behavior. He applies this new understanding of the criminal mind to some of the most well-known criminals in history. And he clearly delineates the pressing considerations this research demands: What are the causes of violence? Can it be treated? And might it one day be stopped? Are some criminals born, not made? What causes violence and how can we treat it? This book introduces new ways of looking at these age-old questions. Drawing on the latest scientific research, the author explains what it reveals about the brains of murderers, psychopaths and serial killers. While once it was thought upbringing explained all, and subsequently explanations shifted to genetics, he goes to great pains to explain that anti-social behaviour is complex, and based on the interaction between genetics and the biological and social environment in which a person is raised. But the latest statistical evidence between certain types of biological and early behavioural warning signs is also very strong. Through a series of case studies of famous criminals, he shows how their criminal behaviour might be explained on the basis of these new scientific discoveries. But the conclusions point to a host of philosophical and moral issues. What are the implications for our criminal justice system? Should we condemn and punish individuals who have little or no control over their behaviour? Should we act preemptively with people who exhibit strong biological predispositions to becoming dangerous criminals? These are among the thorny issues we can no longer ignore as our understanding of criminal behaviour grows.

Description

"Why do some kids from good environments become mass murderers? Is there actually such a thing as a natural-born killer? And, if so, what can we do to identify and treat those born with a predisposition to criminal behavior? For more than three decades Adrian Raine has sought answers to these questions through his pioneering research on the biological basis for violence. In this book, he presents the growing body of evidence that shows how genetics and environmental influences can conspire to create a criminal brain, and how something as seemingly innocent as a low resting heart rate can give rise to a violent personality. Bristling with ingenious experiments, surprising data, and shocking case studies, this is also a clear-eyed inquiry into the thorny ethical issues this science raises about prevention and punishment. Passionate, courageous, and at times controversial, The Anatomy of Violence is a groundbreaking work that will challenge your core human values and perspectives on violence."--Page 4 of cover.

Subjects

Other Editions

• The anatomy of violence: the biological roots of crimeVintage2014-01-01
• The Anatomy of ViolenceHardcoverPantheon Books2013-01-01
• Anatomy of ViolencePenguin Books, Limited2013-01-01
• Anatomy of ViolencePenguin Books, Limited2013-01-01
• Anatomy of ViolencePenguin Books, Limited2014-01-01