Prior to reading this book, I asked myself two
questions. First, who is a psychopath? Second, do I know a psychopath?
Self-centered, manipulative, remorseless, unempathetic, impulsive,
deceitful, articulate, and charming are all descriptions that Robert Hare
uses throughout this text to describe a psychopath and his/her interactions
with society.
Being newly interested in the subject of deviant
crimes, Bryan suggested that I read Hare’s book to gain a better
understanding of the definition of a psychopath. Robert Hare provides
an easy to read format detailing an in-depth description of psychopathy
and how psychopaths interact with society both emotionally and
interpersonally. Hare’s focus covers a broad spectrum, from rapists and
murderers to the successful businessman. His use of true life case
examples throughout the book bring to life the psychopath and helps the
reader to understand the deviant nature behind the psychopathic
personality. Robert Hare’s biologically based research complements his
focus on the clinical aspects of psychopathy, including recognition,
treatment, and interactions with a psychopath.
Overall, Hare presents the psychopathic personality
with fantastic insight, knowledge, and understanding of this complex
personality disorder in an easy to read text that entices the reader to
question and explore the personalities of those that he/she meets and
interacts with on a daily basis.
