Morris B. Hoffman, The Punishers Brain: The Evolution of Judge and Jury (Cambridge UP, 2014)
Why do we feel guilty\u2013and sometimes hurt ourselves\u2013when we harm someone? Why do we become angry\u2013and sometimes violent\u2013when we see other people being harmed? Why do we forgive ourselves and others after a transgression even though \u201cthe rules\u201d say we really shouldn\u2019t?\n\nIn his fascinating book The Punisher\u2019s Brain: The Evolution of Judge and Jury (Cambridge University Press, 2014), Judge Morris B. Hoffman attempts to answer these questions with reference to evolutionary psychology. As a working judge, Hoffman is in an excellent position to explore the dynamics of our instincts to punish and forgive. We are, he says, evolved to punish \u201ccheaters\u201d\u2013ourselves and others\u2013so as to maintain all-important bonds of trust and cooperation. But we are also evolved not to take punishment too far. When correction becomes too costly, we forgive so as to maintain social solidarity. Listen in to our fascinating discussion.\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices\nSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/law