Behavioral Genetics and Crime, in Context

Abstract

This Article provides an introduction to some of the key issues at the intersection of behavioral genetics and crime.

It provides, among other things, an overview of the emerging points of consensus, scientifically, on what behavioral genetics can and cannot tell us about criminal behavior. It also discusses a variety of important implications (as well as complexities) of attempting to use insights of behavioral genetics in legal contexts.

Keywords: genetics, behavioral genetics, DNA, neuroscience, law, crime, behavior, biology, evolution, violence, Landrigan, free will, responsibility, behavioral biology, parity principle, behavioral ecology, predispositions

JEL Classification: K00, K14, K42, K40