The Genetics of Evil: Are People Born Bad? - Dr Kathryn Paige Harden
In a Nutshell
Dr. Kathryn Paige Harden explains that genetics powerfully influence risk-taking, antisocial behavior, and aggression—highly heritable (up to 80% in callous-unemotional cases), evolutionarily adaptive in moderation for innovation/entrepreneurship, but maladaptive at extremes—challenging blank slate views and free will illusions. Punishment should prioritize accountability, containment, and rehabilitation over retribution, as genetic predispositions (e.g., MAOA variants, X-chromosome effects) reduce culpability without excusing harm, urging compassion alongside responsibility. Embryo selection for behavioral traits raises ethical tensions between reducing suffering and preserving genetic diversity essential for societal progress, while modern systems unfairly demand greater self-control from less-domesticated men.
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After publication of her last book, Dr. Harden experienced controversy and pushback from academics, but positive feedback from general readers. Readers wrote about understanding differences from parents or siblings, and how genetics shaped decisions to have or not have kids. Academic responses surprised her, as some portrayed her as a villain to promote their own messages. She cares deeply about accuracy and public perception, making the experience disorienting.
Critics misrepresented her words, claiming she said the opposite of what was written. This created alienation, like talking but not being heard. Insults hurt most when others might believe them, especially a distorted 'doppelganger' version of herself. Compared to relationships where intentions are misunderstood, leading to estrangement. Words are central to her sense of making sense of and changing the world.
The only insults that hurt most are the ones in which I didn't recognize the person they were insulting.
Her dad, a former US Navy fighter pilot, advised that the most fire comes when directly over the target, indicating her genetics work touches deeply important issues in people's lives.
Dr. Harden co-authored a study with DNA from 4 million people, mostly from UK Biobank, 23andMe customers, and All of Us participants. Examined genes more common in people who:
- Had ADHD symptoms in childhood
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