Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us

The author is often asked if the character of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs is an accurate portrayal of psychopathy. Hare agrees that some of Lecter’s traits, such as manipulative charm, remorselessness, and egocentricity, are common in psychopaths. However, the character is not “typical” in his behavior. Hare estimates that of the 2-3 million psychopaths in North America, fewer than 100 of them are serial killers.

The author recounts the story of Elyse and Jeffrey. On first meeting him, Elyse was attracted to Jeffrey’s confidence. Although he claimed to be a cartoonist, he often waited outside Elyse’s workplace and had no fixed abode. When Jeffrey was arrested, Elyse was shocked to learn he was wanted for a list of crimes. Jeffrey wrote to Elyse from prison, promising her a wonderful life when he was released, and she sent him money. Eight months later, Jeffrey moved in with Elyse. One night, he got into bed with one of Elyse’s housemates, pinning her down. When Elyse got Jeffrey a job, he stole money from the cash register and went missing for days. Elyse’s parents were not taken in by Jeffrey’s charm and suggested consulting a psychiatrist.