GSS3207

GSS

3207

SERIAL AND MASS MURDER IN THE U.S.

The objective of this course is for students to learn the contexts in which serial killers and mass murderers were born, developed, lived and killed. As the birth and development of selected serial killers and mass murderers are studied, historical and sociological events in the United States are also examined. Students will learn how neurological conditions and biological predispositions interact with psychological and sociological forces to mold these desperate people. Music, media, and motion pictures during the era will also be discussed. The age old question about life imitating art or art imitating life, as well as the nature-nurture controversy and mind-body dualism will be the subjects of all these dimensions. The burgeoning role of forensic science in the capture of Ted Bundy (odontology), Wayne Williams (hair and fiber), Denis Rader, BTK (computer) will be traced from its primitive roots of phrenology to the sophisticated, present day electrophoresis equipment.