A conceptual analysis of psychopathy.
Date
2010-06-22T06:33:42Z
Authors
Van Onselen, Mathew
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Abstract
In this paper I conduct a conceptual analysis of the personality disorder known as
“psychopathy.” The concept has its roots in psychology, but in recent years there has
been much investigation into the nature of psychopathy in both philosophy and
neuroscience. These three disciplines frequently work independently of one another, and
it is my aim to provide a single account of psychopathy that is informed from all three
disciplines, using philosophical analysis as a means to elucidate key aspects of the
disorder. Apart from exploring the aspects of psychopathic wrongdoing, emotions, and
practical rationality, I also explore the understanding of psychopaths as “morally
insane,” and conclude that the concept of psychopathy is best understood from a nonmoral
point of view.