The Reith Lectures

Is Violence Normal?

18 snips
Nov 26, 2024
Dr. Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist with nearly 40 years at renowned institutions like Broadmoor, investigates the complex nature of violence. She ponder whether violence is a natural human trait and explores the deep-rooted links between trauma and aggressive behavior. The discussion delves into the psychological factors that drive individuals to violence and examines the role of restorative justice in healing both victims and offenders. Insights from her therapeutic experiences provide a compassionate perspective on this often misunderstood issue.
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ANECDOTE

Unexpected Revival

  • Gwen Adshead recalls a patient in Broadmoor who described disposing of a body.
  • The patient's victim unexpectedly regained consciousness.
INSIGHT

Natural vs. Normal

  • Human violence is a recurring theme in media, raising questions about its normalcy.
  • While violence exists in primates, human violence has distinct characteristics and motivations.
INSIGHT

Fascination with Violence

  • Humans are fascinated by narratives of murder and cruelty, suggesting an awareness of our capacity for it.
  • The enduring popularity of true crime and crime fiction highlights this.
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