Is there a "murder gene"? In this episode, we dive into the field of biosocial criminology to ask if violent criminals are born or made. We break down the science of the MAOA "Warrior Gene," exploring how a genetic variant can combine with childhood trauma to create a ticking time bomb.

We also examine the anatomy of a killer, looking at how a disconnected prefrontal cortex and amygdala lead to a "broken braking system" in the brain. Finally, we discuss the landmark Bradley Waldroup case, where scientific evidence of a "broken brain" was used to save a violent offender from the death penalty.