The Science of Evil: On Empathy and the Origins of Cruelty

Simon Baron-Cohen

May 2011 · Sold by Basic Books

About this eBook

An award-winning psychologist draws on years of research to unveil “a simple but persuasive hypothesis for a new way to think about evil.” ―New York Times 

How can we explain both cruelty and kindness? To award-winning psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen, the explanation for cruelty is low levels of empathy, and the explanation for kindness is high levels of empathy. In The Science of Evil, Baron-Cohen draws on decades of research to develop a new, brain-based theory of human cruelty and kindness. He explores the social and biological factors that can influence our empathy levels, explains the key distinction between cognitive and affective forms of empathy, and shows how low empathy can lead to dehumanizing behavior. Featuring a new introduction by the author, The Science of Evil will continue to challenge our understanding of human cruelty. 

Ratings and reviews

I can understand the concept of empathy in this essay: the path of complexity though the use of different areas of the brain leaves me to wonder is this just the beginning of many different areas of the brain yet to be understood or explored that can/will alter/justify/acknowledge evil/good behaviour ? Physical: chromosomes (DNA)?

A powerful essay. We all possess different levels of empathic abilities. These variances can explain horrendous behaviours. If we cannot choose how much we value or can understand others' experiences how can anyone be blamed (or congratulated) for their actions? Well worth a read.

This is a book with lots of opinion and prejudice. I had hoped for something less biased and more fact-based.

About the author

Simon Baron-Cohen is a professor of developmental psychopathology and director of the Autism Research Centre at the University of Cambridge. He is the author of more than six hundred scientific articles and four books, including The Pattern Seekers, The Science of Evil, and The Essential Difference. He lives in Cambridge, UK.