![]() Hans Brunner, a geneticist, spent 15 years investigating this intriguing family. The crimes included arson, exhibitionism, and attempted rape and murder. It was first identified in 1993 in certain male members of a Dutch clan with five generations of documented aggression in their family tree. Still, one particular gene has been implicated in violent behavior. These studies are surprisingly difficult to perform since behavior is a complex trait governed by many genes as well as the environment. Should genetic predispositions be added to the list of “mitigating factors” accepted by the courts? If so, sound scientific studies must demonstrate a link between genes and aggressive, violent or deviant behavior. ![]() Even the casual Law and Order viewer is aware that convicted criminals routinely receive reduced sentences for extenuating circumstances, such as a history of child abuse or neglect.
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