Commentary on Linda Mealey (1995), The sociobiology of sociopathy: An integrated evolutionary model

Authors

Scott F. Stoltenberg, The University Of MichiganFollow
Joseph L. Hernandez Cruz, University of Arizona
Don Joseph Stein, University of Stellenbosch
Linda Mealey, University of Queensland

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

9-1997

Citation

Behavioral and Brain Sciences 20:3 (September 1997), pp. 525–532.

doi: 10.1017/S0140525X97001519

Comments

Copyright © 1997 Cambridge University Press. Used by permission.

Abstract

[SFS] When Genotype × Environment (G × E) interactions are present, heritability estimates are not interpretable. Mealey cites abundant evidence for G × E interactions in the etiology of sociopathy, thereby completely undermining estimates of the heritability of sociopathy which form the foundation of her model. Without proper evidence for a genetic basis of sociopathy, Mealey’s sociobiological model collapses under its own great weight.

[LM] It is impossible to discuss the constructs “heritability,” “theory of mind,” and “normality” in a single coherent essay. The following three rejoinders address each of these exceedingly complex constructs individually, as each relates to the two-path model of sociopathy and psychopathy.