Neuroscientist James Fallon has sparked debate by claiming that psychopathy may not be a distinct condition, after discovering he himself has the brain patterns and genetic makeup associated with psychopathy. Fallon, a professor and family man, made the finding in 2006 while studying brain scans of murderers and patients with psychopathy and schizophrenia.
Fallon initially dismissed the discovery, but began to take it seriously in 2010 after a public talk. He then asked close family and friends for their honest opinions. They confirmed his psychopathic traits, with psychiatrists labelling him a 'pro-social psychopath' on the borderline of categorical psychopathy.
Despite early signs, including making pipe bombs and stealing cars as a teen, Fallon's cheerful and outgoing personality offset these disturbances. He was popular at school and later became a successful scientist. However, some clinicians and teachers had warned him of something 'evil' about him.
Fallon admits to endangering others, such as taking his brother to a cave in Africa known for the deadly Marburg virus without warning him. He justifies such behaviour by pointing out he also puts himself at risk. He scores highly on the Hare psychopathy checklist for traits linked to fearless dominance, which he notes are common among successful CEOs and US presidents like JFK and Bill Clinton.
Fallon argues that psychopathy may not be a fixed condition, as he has not reversed his own traits but has managed to lead a pro-social life. He knows of no case where full-blown psychopathy has been cured in teenagers or adults, though early intervention in children may help.
