Chapter 8, Words from an Overcoat Pocket, pg 124-143 Summary and Analysis

In this chapter, Hare approaches the subject of psychopaths' speech. Apparently, psychopaths often use speech to smooth talk and cajole not only guilble people, but everyone. As Hare has explained in past chapters, he and his students, who have had extensive experience with psychopaths, are often still conned by them even when they know they are dealing with a psychopath.

Hare points out that frequently, a psychopath will use contradictory statements in order to convince people and escape detection of lies. To illustrate his point, he offers examples of several psychopaths' quotes. "When asked if he had ever committed a violent offense, a man serving time for theft answered, "No, but I once had to kill someone." Hare explains that these statements are blatant lies. These words...