Kathryn Paige Harden - Original Sin: On The Genetics of Vice, The Problem of Blame, And the Future of Forgiveness

Podcast: A Book with Legs (LS 55 · TOP 0.5% what is this?)Episode: Kathryn Paige Harden - Original Sin: On The Genetics of Vice, The Problem of Blame, And the Future of ForgivenessPub date: 2026-03-16Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationHow much of our temperament and behavior is passed through DNA, and how do we punish those whose behavior may be shaped by genetic forces outside of their control?These concepts are explored in the latest episode of A Book with Legs, where Smead Capital Management CEO and Portfolio Manager Cole Smead is joined by professor, scientist, and author Kathryn Paige Harden to discuss her book, “Original Sin: On the Genetics of Vice, the Problem of Blame, and the Future of Forgiveness.” Cole and Kathryn discuss the ideas of right, wrong, and sin, and how much our genetics are to blame for our actions. The two also analyze findings from studies led by Paige and the mental frameworks of some of history’s greatest theological minds to guide their discussionHarden is a professor of psychology at the University of Texas, where she directs the Developmental Behavior Genetics lab. She conducts research on how genes and environments combine to shape children's mental and physical health. She is the author of over 150 scientific publications and two books: The Genetic Lottery and Original Sin. Purchase a copy of “Original Sin: On the Genetics of Vice, the Problem of Blame, and the Future of Forgiveness” here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/714593/original-sin-by-kathryn-paige-harden/Sign up to be notified about new A Book with Legs episodes: https://hubs.ly/Q0452V800The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Smead Capital Management, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.