#483 – Julia Shaw: Criminal Psychology of Murder, Serial Killers, Memory & Sex

Julia Shaw, a criminal psychologist, explores the complexities of human nature, asserting that everyone has the capacity for both good and evil, shaped significantly by environmental factors. Her work delves into psychopathy, violent crime, and the psychological aspects of murder and sadism, particularly in her book *Evil*.

Shaw discusses the dark tetrad traits—psychopathy, sadism, narcissism, and Machiavellianism—highlighting their continuum and how they can predict risky behaviors. She challenges the notion of individuals being born evil, using the hypothetical scenario of killing baby Hitler to illustrate that nurture plays a crucial role in shaping behavior. Shaw advocates for understanding the motivations behind harmful actions rather than labeling individuals as "evil," emphasizing the importance of humanizing those considered dangerous.

The conversation addresses the psychological aspects of serious criminals, revealing how narratives can rationalize wrongdoing. Shaw notes that perceptions of "creepiness" often stem from deviations from social norms, affecting trustworthiness. She highlights the challenges in lie detection, pointing out that even professionals struggle to identify deception accurately, which can lead to wrongful accusations.

Shaw examines the psychological cost of empathizing with those labeled as "monsters," arguing that studying evil can yield valuable insights without moral corruption. She discusses the glamorization of serial killers in media versus the reality of most murders, which are often impulsive rather than premeditated. The conversation also touches on the psychology of incels and the dangers of entitlement, as well as the manipulative tactics used in love scams.

The discussion shifts to the complexities of polyamorous relationships, emphasizing the importance of honesty and communication. Shaw critiques societal pressures surrounding bisexuality and the misconceptions that persist about sexual orientation. She introduces the concept of the "troubled bisexual," highlighting the challenges faced by individuals across all sexual orientations.

Shaw's research on false memories reveals how suggestive interview techniques can implant inaccuracies, raising concerns about the reliability of eyewitness testimonies. She emphasizes the need for proper cognitive interviews in criminal psychology to enhance the accuracy of information gathered during investigations. The conversation also explores the impact of AI on memory, warning of the potential for distortion in personal narratives.

The podcast concludes with a focus on environmental crime, discussing the motivations behind corporate deception and the need for nuanced responses to such crimes. Shaw advocates for recognizing environmental crime as a "crime against Earth," emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues and the importance of empathy in understanding human behavior.