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Chapter 2 - Why Are We Interested in Serial Killers?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 January 2023

Marissa A. Harrison
Affiliation:
Pennsylvania State University
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Summary

In this chapter, the author discusses interest in serial murder. She posits that interest in gruesome events such as serial killing is linked to morbid curiosity and protective vigilance and discusses her team’s research on this phenomenon. From an evolutionary psychology perspective, to survive, we are genetically preprogrammed to pay attention to that which is harmful. She discusses the lucrative murderabilia industry (i.e., murder-related artifacts for sale) and the popularity of morbid entertainment. This chapter addresses the commodification of serial murder and presents a debate about its sensitivity to the plight of victims. The cases of FSKs Dana Sue Grey and Belle Gunness are highlighted to underscore our profound interest in this disturbing phenomenon.

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Chapter
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Just as Deadly
The Psychology of Female Serial Killers
, pp. 17 - 31
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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