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Original Sin by Kathryn Paige Harden review
A psychologist delves into the genetics of bad behaviour in a book littered with fascinating scientific findings
TL;DR
- Kathryn Paige Harden researches the genetic patterns linked to substance abuse and risk-taking behaviors.
- Her new book explores how genetics and life circumstances influence behavior, challenging notions of moral responsibility and blame.
- Harden connects Christian ideas about sin and forgiveness to the US criminal justice system.
- The book includes scientific findings on the genetic determination of religiosity, correlation between minor physical anomalies and aggression, and social punishment in paper wasps.
- Harden suggests that awareness of genetic and social components of behavior should modify ideas about just punishment, advocating for humbled but not debased wrongdoers.
- She rejects the idea of selecting embryos for higher self-control, arguing societies benefit from moral differences and rule-breakers.
- The book prompts contemplation on how a just society should treat individuals whose genetic predispositions might lead them towards harmful actions.