Encore: Why psychopathy is more common than you think, with Abigail Marsh, PhD

Psychopathy is a personality construct characterized by a constellation of callousness, boldness, and disinhibition, rather than the violent criminal behavior typically depicted in media. Dr. Abigail Marsh, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Georgetown University, explains that psychopathy exists on a continuum, with most individuals presenting as unremarkable and socially functional. Brain imaging research highlights a critical distinction: individuals with psychopathic traits show reduced amygdala activity, whereas extreme altruists—such as those who donate kidneys to strangers—exhibit larger, more responsive amygdalas. Although psychopathy is partially heritable, early identification and behavioral interventions that prioritize positive reinforcement over fear-based punishment can effectively manage these traits. Understanding these emotional and neurological mechanisms provides a clearer picture of the spectrum of human behavior, ranging from a profound lack of empathy to extraordinary compassion.