Criminal profiling and detective work have deep roots in history, influenced by figures like Eugen François Vidocq and fictional detectives who shape our perception of crime.
Criminal profiling is not without controversy and flaws, with some high-profile profilers facing criticism for their overconfidence and lack of scientific basis, leading to wrongful convictions.
Society's obsession with serial killers perpetuates harmful narratives, prioritizing criminals' desires over victims' and families', while also distorting our perception of criminal profiling.
Deep dives
The Origins of Criminal Profiling and Detectives
The podcast episode explores the origins of criminal profiling and detectives, tracing it back to figures like Eugen François Vidocq, a former criminal who turned detective in 19th century France. It explains how the idea spread to other countries and how fictional detectives like Auguste Dupin in Edgar Allan Poe's stories popularized the image of the great detective. The episode delves into how narratives and storytelling play a significant role in the criminal justice system, shaping our understanding of crime and justice.
The Controversies and Flaws of Criminal Profiling
The podcast episode delves into the controversies and flaws surrounding criminal profiling. It discusses how certain high-profile profilers, such as John Douglas and Robert Ressler, have been criticized for their overconfidence and the lack of scientific basis in their work. The episode highlights cases where profiling led to wrongful convictions, emphasizing the dangers of relying too heavily on profiling techniques. It also explores how the allure of criminal profiling attracts charlatans, leading to individuals falsifying their qualifications and contributing to the lack of credibility in the field.
The Obsession with Serial Killers and Perpetuating Harmful Narratives
The podcast episode examines society's obsession with serial killers and how this fascination perpetuates harmful narratives. It critiques the practice of profilers and journalists engaging with serial killers, giving them platforms to tell their stories and reinforce their dominance. The episode questions the ethical implications of prioritizing the desires of criminals over the victims and their families. It also explores the role of storytelling in creating a sense of order and justice, even in a world that is inherently chaotic and uncertain.
The Downside of FBI Profiling and Serial Killer Fascination
The podcast highlights the problematic aspects of FBI profiling and the fascination with serial killers. It explores how the portrayal of profiling in fiction, such as Thomas Harris' novels, can distort our perception of the work. It delves into the idea of profiling as an extension of American conquest mythology, relying on white male perspectives and grifting tactics. The podcast discusses the limitations of profiling, pointing out the fallibility of assumptions and the potential for wrongful convictions. It also examines the need for recognition and the pursuit of knowledge, which can sometimes blur the line between accurate analysis and self-serving narratives.
The Dangers of Building Narratives Around Serial Killers
The podcast cautions against the glamorization of serial killers and the desire to understand their motives. It questions the notion that serial killers are inherently interesting or superhumanly intelligent. The podcast argues that labeling them as 'other' can hinder our understanding of the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior. It critiques the sensationalization of serial killers in the media and the potential harm in giving them a platform. The podcast also explores the manipulation of public perception through profiling and the need for a more nuanced and empathetic approach to criminal investigation.
"What is it about the culture that has conditioned us to favor the wants and needs and desires, however horrible, of a serial murderer, as opposed to--most often--the women and girls that they harmed and killed?" This week, Sarah Weinman takes us on a backpacking trip through true crime history and American pop culture, and tells us about the myths and realities of criminal profiling—and why they're sometimes so hard to pull apart. And finally, we ask the ultimate taboo question: are serial killers boring?
