ABSTRACT
This chapter describes that the behaviors subsumed under the rubric “psychopathy” are basically forms of insensitivity, which may be socially functional or dysfunctional. A good example of what can be termed as metaphorical “myth-to-mischief” transformation is the manner in which the labels “psychopath” or “sociopath” are employed by professional mental hygienists. The chapter focuses on both functional and dysfunctional insensitivities usually result from specific formal or informal desensitizing socialization experiences. It shows that insensitivities should be studied and treated as specific differential behaviors, not as global personality disorders. A careful examination of insensitivity in a differential framework will reveal that not only is insensitivity found to various extents in the general population but it is functionally necessary for the individual’s and the society’s existence. Although dysfunctional insensitivities might include audiovisual and other sensory spheres, what should concern us most are certain socially dysfunctional insensitivities.
