Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us

The images of cold-blooded, mindless killers that increasingly appear in our movies, TV shows, and newspaper headlines terrify and fascinate most people. Serial murderers such as Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy are among the most dramatic instances of the psychopath due to their blatant illegal breach of society's standards. People suffering with this personality disorder are horrifyingly self-centered, remorseless, and insensitive to the sentiments of others, even if they are fully aware of the repercussions of their acts and can distinguish between good and wrong. The most terrifying thing about them is that, to unwary prey, they often seem quite normal—and they don't always carry out their murderous duties. Based on twenty-five years of prestigious scientific study, Dr. Robert D. Hare paints a vivid picture of these deadly men and women, con artists, hustlers, rapists, and other predators who use charm, deceit, and manipulation to get what they want in life. Are psychopaths evil people or are they insane? How are they identifiable? Furthermore, how can we defend ourselves? For those looking to learn more about this debilitating ailment, this book offers reliable information along with some unexpected discoveries.