Physio-Sociology or Psychology of Conscience? Reply to Smith

Abstract

Smith (1995) argues that low nervous reactivity predicts sensation-seeking and psychopathy. Recent evidence strongly suggests that low reactivity, usually designated as low trait anxiety, does not predict primary psychopathy or anti-social behavior. This evidence also indicates that there is more than one type of sensation-seeking. The type which involves physical risk-taking was completely unrelated to psychopathy or anti-social behavior. Smith takes exception to the introduction of moral universals into the controversy over the sources of psychopathy. A very strong case can be made for the existence and relevance of such universals. The psychological theory of psychopathy is reprised and a suggestion is made for further research.