Morbidly Curious

A Scientist Explains Why We Can't Look Away

De: Coltan Scrivner PhD

Narrado por: Coltan Scrivner PhD

“A fascinating examination of a feature of human nature that all of us have, most of us deplore (at least in others), and few of us understand.”
—Steven Pinker, New York Times bestselling author of Rationality and Enlightenment Now

The leading expert on the science behind morbid curiosity explains our spooky, gory, and macabre fascinations

What makes us peek at a car wreck or binge-watch true crime shows late into the night? Why are some of us drawn to horror movies while others shudder at the thought? In Morbidly Curious, scientist Coltan Scrivner takes listeners on a thrilling journey into the psychology of morbid curiosity, uncovering why we can’t resist the macabre. From grisly serial killers to spine-chilling paranormal stories, Scrivner reveals the psychological forces that compel us to explore our darkest fears—and explains how this proclivity is more than just a quirk. It’s a powerful survival instinct, helping us mentally prepare for real-world threats, all from the safety of our imaginations.

Blending fascinating insights and cutting-edge research at haunted houses across the world, Scrivner makes a powerful argument for the value of playing with fear and embracing the gruesome. Whether you're a horror fan yourself or just want to better understand the true crime craze, Morbidly Curious will open your eyes to the hidden benefits of exploring the dark side of human nature.

©2025 Coltan Scrivner, PhD (P)2025 Penguin Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

“A fascinating examination of a feature of human nature that all of us have, most of us deplore (at least in others), and few of us understand.”—Steven Pinker, New York Times bestselling author of Rationality and Enlightenment Now

“What sort of sickness drives our fascination with true crime, slasher films, and all things macabre? In this wonderfully unsettling exploration, Coltan Scrivner shows that morbid curiosity isn’t a pathology at all—it’s a form of preparation, one that deepens our empathy and builds our resilience. Morbidly Curious is sharp, humane, and a delight to read.”—Paul Bloom, author of Against Empathy and Psych

“I can’t look away from this book. Dr. Scrivner doesn’t shy away from explaining some of the darkest recesses of our curious mind, and as a result we learn so much more about humans.”—Scott Barry Kaufman, author of Wired to Create and Transcend

Not JUST for horror fandom

If you’d like to gain, scientific insight into your own obsession with all things true crime (LIKE ME ,) this is your book! Well supported scientific inquiry, of the “dark minds” of the soft hearted explained in a concise consumable way , using relatable and entertaining examples .

Fascinating book which Stephen Fry should read

The book is fascinating and I’d recommend it to everyone, as it’s not only for horror fans. I congratulate the author but honestly, his voice is very deadpan and droning. It makes it hard to stay involved and I’m constantly being distracted by anything and everything. Now, if Stephen Fry were to read this book, I’d buy a second copy and recommend it to everyone I know!