Description
“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 New York Times Book Review 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 readers 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.
Binding Type: Paperback
Author: Coltan Scrivner
Published: 10/07/2025
Publisher: Penguin Books
ISBN: 9780143137344
Pages: 272
Weight: 0.45lbs
Size: 0.60″ H x 7.90″ L x 5.20″ W
About the Author
Coltan Scrivner, PhD, is a behavioral scientist and horror entertainment producer. He is the world’s leading expert on the science behind morbid curiosity and the appeal of frightening entertainment. He is also the executive director of the Nightmare in the Ozarks Film Festival and the Eureka Springs Zombie Crawl, one of the largest gatherings of zombies in the world.
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