The Psychology of your 20s 301. Why do we love true crime?
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Jun 3, 2025 Explore the intriguing world of morbid curiosity and why it draws us to true crime. Discover the four types of morbid curiosity and how traits like openness influence our interests. The podcast delves into the psychological reasons behind our obsession, suggesting it may be a coping mechanism for existential fears. It discusses the ethical implications of consuming true crime and the delicate balance between engaging with it mindfully and maintaining compassion. Learn how this fascination speaks to our strength rather than weakness.
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Understanding Morbid Curiosity
- Morbid curiosity is the drive to explore dangerous or disturbing topics like death or violence.
- It activates extreme interest, which can feel thrilling even if the content is negative.
Evolutionary Roots of Morbid Curiosity
- Morbid curiosity evolved to help humans survive by learning about threats indirectly.
- It acts as a threat simulation, allowing safe mental rehearsal of dangers without direct exposure.
Neuroscience of True Crime Appeal
- True crime activates the brain’s fear and empathy centers simultaneously.
- It provides a safe emotional workout, training fear responses without real-world danger.
