Big Think The neuroscience of extremes: Ruthless psychopathy to extraordinary generosity | Abigail Marsh
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Aug 28, 2025 
In a captivating discussion, Abigail Marsh, a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Georgetown University, explores the spectrum of human behavior from extreme altruism to psychopathy. She challenges the notion that humans are inherently selfish, backed by her own life-saving experience. Marsh breaks down complex traits of psychopathy, clarifying myths and discussing treatment options. She also delves into how empathy can foster altruism, showcasing that kindness and cruelty may lie along the same continuum of human nature.
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Humans Are Not Fundamentally Selfish
- Psychopathy shows people can genuinely lack concern for others, proving humans are not intrinsically selfish.
- Neuroscience finds brain systems that specifically encode caring for others, so caring is built into us.
A Stranger Saved Her Life
- Abigail Marsh recounts that a stranger saved her life when she was 19 to illustrate human kindness.
- That personal story motivated her research into why people care for strangers.
Psychopathy Is A Dimensional Disorder
- Psychopathy comprises a constellation: callousness, bold social dominance, and impulsive disinhibition.
- These traits vary continuously across people rather than being a binary category.
