Genetics and criminality : the potential misuse of scientific information in court

As scientists come closer to identifying genetic markers for human behaviour, society is challenged to determine how reliable these findings might be and whether they can be used to solve real-life problems.

If there are specific genes that predispose people to violence, how should the courts use this genetic information?

Does it matter, in prosecution and sentencing, whether a genetic predisposition to criminality exists?

How should we weigh this information against environmental influences such as poverty or physical abuse?

This book examines these questions by considering the perspectives of leaders in science, medicine, law and philosophy, perspectives that don't neatly intersect.

Essential reading for social scientists and criminal lawyers, "Genetics and Criminality" offers a thought-provoking analysis of the delicate balance between knowledge and justice.