Topic: Psychopathy

Jordan Peterson appeared on Piers Morgan's show to discuss a study regarding personality traits associated with excessive social media usage. Peterson argues that platforms like Instagram enable a small percentage of the population with "dark tetrad" traits—narcissism, Machiavellianism, and sadism—to dominate social discourse. He specifically notes how these traits manifest in "influencer" culture.

New York Times columnist Charles Blow reacted to the Jussie Smollett investigation by suggesting that if the police account is true, Smollett would have to be a psychopath. The discussion notes that while Smollett was not a top-tier celebrity on platforms like TMZ, he was well-connected within Hollywood and political circles. Media figures appear hesitant to distance themselves from Smollett due to their shared community ties.

Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Michael Welner analyzed Stephen Paddock's motives, noting that "stranger mass homicides" are typically committed by younger men seeking notoriety, such as Aurora shooter James Holmes. Welner suggested that for an older man like Paddock, the crime was likely a "spectacle" designed to instigate a specific cause or derivative impact. The discussion also touches on the genetics of psychopathy, noting Paddock's father was a bank robber on the FBI's Most Wanted list.

The show concludes with a correction regarding the International Criminal Court's conviction record and a discussion on a study linking male selfies to psychopathic tendencies. The hosts argue the study is biased against men and that the same traits likely apply to women. They sign off with a tribute to producer Pete O'Rourke and a final call for "value-for-value" support.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports on the work of criminologist Adrian Rain, who suggests that biological brain abnormalities may predispose individuals to violence. The segment focuses on "cavum septum pellucidum," a neurological gap linked to a lack of fear and psychopathic traits.

The discussion introduces the concept of "Ponerology," the scientific study of evil and how psychopaths rise to power in governments and financial institutions. Referencing the book *Political Ponerology* by Andrew Lobaczewski and *Snakes in Suits*, the hosts discuss how a small percentage of the population lacks empathy and can co-opt large organizations. They suggest that many world leaders, including Merkel and Sarkozy, exhibit these psychopathic traits.