Plain English with Derek Thompson cover image

Plain English with Derek Thompson

Whatever Happened to Serial Killers?

Jun 28, 2024
In this engaging discussion, guest James Alan Fox, a renowned criminologist and author, delves into the shocking rise and sudden decline of serial killers in America. He explores historical trends, revealing how societal changes and technological advancements transformed criminal investigation. Fox contrasts the Hollywood portrayal of these criminals with their often mundane realities. He also discusses the evolution of DNA technology and its impact on solving cold cases, shedding light on the complex relationship between crime and changing cultural narratives.
44:43

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The rise in serial killers from the 1960s was fueled by societal changes, like more hitchhikers and sex workers.
  • Advances in police technology and crime-solving techniques, such as DNA databases and surveillance cameras, aided in catching serial killers.

Deep dives

Rise of Serial Killers in the 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s and 1970s provided increased opportunities for serial killers with more hitchhikers and sex workers, creating potential victims. The era's societal changes, like the sexual revolution and less fear of strangers, contributed to a rise in serial killings. Changes in behavior, like cautiousness and less hitchhiking, also impacted the victim pool for serial killers.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode