In this episode of Crime Time, Inc., hosts review the second of four Reith lectures from the BBC by forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Gwen Adshead, titled 'But Aren't They All Evil?'. Delivered at the V and A museum in Dundee, Scotland, Dr. Adshead tackles the concept of evil, arguing that everyone has the capacity for it, even if they never act on it. Drawing on her experience with patients in secure psychiatric hospitals and prisons, she challenges the notion that people who commit violent acts are simply 'born evil.' Instead, she discusses various key components that contribute to an 'evil state of mind,' such as cognitive distortions, hyper individualism, a sense of entitlement, and self-deception. The hosts discuss how societal narratives and personal histories influence violent behavior, touching on notable examples like the Holocaust. Audience members in the Q&A contribute personal stories and challenge Dr. Adshead's views on the inherent nature of evil. The conversation transitions to the role of emotions, societal influences, and educational programs in preventing violence. Throughout, Dr. Adshead advocates for a nuanced understanding of human behavior and suggests that cultivating compassion and gratitude can counteract negative forces. The episode ends with a teaser for Dr. Adshead's next lecture, focused on the impact of childhood trauma on violence, which will be delivered from Grendon Prison in England.
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gwen Adshead's Lecture
00:38 Challenging the Concept of Evil
03:15 Components of an Evil State of Mind
06:47 The Role of Emotions and Societal Influences
08:18 Audience Reactions and Q&A
12:47 Distorted Narratives and Self-Justification
13:30 Violence as an Addiction
14:21 The Role of Education in Reducing Violence
15:44 The Age of Rage: Societal Anger and Accountability
16:52 Gendered Aspects of Anger and Violence
17:50 Public Health Approach to Violence Prevention
18:34 Victims' Perspectives on Violence
20:37 Religion and Rehabilitation
22:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Lectures
About Crime Time Inc.
Crime Time Inc. is hosted by Tom and Simon—two ex-cops with decades of frontline experience and zero tolerance for fluff. Tom, a by-the-book former Deputy Chief Constable from Edinburgh, and Simon, a rule-bending ex-undercover cop from Glasgow, bring sharp insight, dark humour, and plenty of East vs. West banter to every episode.
Whether they’re revisiting cases they worked on, grilling fellow former officers, or picking apart narrated true crime stories, Tom and Simon don’t just talk about crime—they’ve lived it. Real cases. Real cops. Real talk.
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