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Are Psychopaths Morally Responsible?

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     Are psychopaths morally responsible for their actions?  Many philosophers think that in order to be held morally responsible, one must possess an understanding of the moral impact of one's actions and have the capacity to engage in moral reasoning.  Psychopaths lack the capacity to feel emotions such as empathy, guilt, and remorse.  Do these defects prevent them from understanding morality?  Do these defects make them incapable of engaging in moral reasoning?  Are they off the moral hook?

     If so, what are the implications for punishment, blame, and forgiveness?

     If these questions interest you, join WVU Philosophy and Professor Jeanette Kennett (Macquarie University, Australia) for a discussion in room 2036 of WVU's downtown library from 4:30-5:30 on Thursday, October 26.

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