But Aren't They All Evil?

In this episode of Crime Time, Inc., hosts review the second of four Reith lectures from the BBC by forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Gwen Adshead, titled 'But Aren't They All Evil?'. Delivered at the V and A museum in Dundee, Scotland, Dr. Adshead tackles the concept of evil, arguing that everyone has the capacity for it, even if they never act on it. Drawing on her experience with patients in secure psychiatric hospitals and prisons, she challenges the notion that people who commit violent acts are simply 'born evil.' Instead, she discusses various key components that contribute to an 'evil state of mind,' such as cognitive distortions, hyper individualism, a sense of entitlement, and self-deception. The hosts discuss how societal narratives and personal histories influence violent behavior, touching on notable examples like the Holocaust. Audience members in the Q&A contribute personal stories and challenge Dr. Adshead's views on the inherent nature of evil. The conversation transitions to the role of emotions, societal influences, and educational programs in preventing violence. Throughout, Dr. Adshead advocates for a nuanced understanding of human behavior and suggests that cultivating compassion and gratitude can counteract negative forces. The episode ends with a teaser for Dr. Adshead's next lecture, focused on the impact of childhood trauma on violence, which will be delivered from Grendon Prison in England.00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gwen Adshead's Lecture00:38 Challenging the Concept of Evil03:15 Components of an Evil State of Mind06:47 The Role of Emotions and Societal Influences08:18 Audience Reactions and Q&A12:47 Distorted Narratives and Self-Justification13:30 Violence as an Addiction14:21 The Role of Education in Reducing Violence15:44 The Age of Rage: Societal Anger and Accountability16:52 Gendered Aspects of Anger and Violence17:50 Public Health Approach to Violence Prevention18:34 Victims' Perspectives on Violence20:37 Religion and Rehabilitation22:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future LecturesAbout Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.