Morbidly Curious

A Scientist Explains Why We Can't Look Away

By: Coltan Scrivner PhD

Narrated by: 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

"An entertaining examination of the underlying reasons behind our attraction to the macabre."
—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.

outstanding!!

A refreshing blend of science and relatability. It is not often a single author can represent the power of empiricism and the walk a reader through the process of critical thinking without the reader realizing it. Thank you for shedding light on the value behind exploring our fears and learning ti master big feelings through play. As a Developmental Psychopathologist I was struck by the skillful normalization of children's need to and enjoyment of experiencing well modulated fear experiences. This need to be taught in more colleges! It would make a great supplemental text for many courses.

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 .

Negativity Bias in Action

This was a very interesting read. It was interesting to see how negativity biases shape people's curiosity about horror. We're more inclined to remember and pay attention to things in our environment that are negative so that we can learn to manage them.

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!

Fascinating and highly entertaining

Highly recommend to anyone that is interested in psychology, evolutionary psychology, ethology, or dark fascinations. The author's narration is excellent. You can tell that the author really lives this topic, and has poured their energy into making it accessible to a wide audience.