In his book “The Evolution of the Human Head,” Daniel Lieberman explores the evolution of human anatomy and how it has contributed to our unique abilities and behaviors. One of the most interesting aspects of this evolution is how changes in the structure of our skulls and brains have affected our propensity for violence and criminal behavior. In this article, we will review Lieberman’s findings on this topic and explore how they relate to the evolution of crime.

Understanding the Evolution of the Human Head

Before diving into the relationship between human anatomy and criminal behavior, it’s important to understand the evolution of our species. Over millions of years, humans have evolved from small primates with tiny brains to the intelligent, bipedal creatures we are today. One of the most notable changes in our evolution has been the growth and development of our brains, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control.

Another important aspect of human evolution has been the development of our skulls and facial features. As our brains grew larger, our skulls had to adapt to accommodate them. This led to changes in the shape and structure of our faces, such as the flattening of our noses and the forward projection of our jaws. These changes have had a significant impact on our ability to bite, chew, and speak, as well as our overall appearance.

The Relationship Between Anatomy and Crime

So how does all of this relate to criminal behavior? According to Lieberman, there are several ways in which changes in our anatomy have influenced our propensity for violence and criminal activity. One of the most significant factors is the size of our prefrontal cortex. As this area of our brain has grown larger, we have developed greater impulse control and the ability to make more reasoned decisions. However, this development has also led to increased aggression and violence when our impulses are not kept in check.

Another factor is the shape of our faces and jaws. As our jaws became more forward-projecting, we gained the ability to deliver more powerful bites and punches. This, combined with our increased brain size and cognitive abilities, made us more effective hunters and fighters. However, it also made us more capable of inflicting serious harm on others, which has contributed to the development of criminal behavior.

The Evolution of Crime

As human societies evolved and became more complex, so too did our criminal behavior. Lieberman notes that early humans engaged in a variety of violent and criminal activities, such as raiding neighboring tribes, stealing food and resources, and engaging in interpersonal violence. As we developed more sophisticated social structures, our criminal behavior became more organized and institutionalized.

Today, we see a wide range of criminal activities, from petty theft and vandalism to organized crime and terrorism. While our anatomy and evolution certainly play a role in these behaviors, they are also influenced by a wide range of social, cultural, and environmental factors. For example, poverty and lack of education can lead to increased criminal activity, as can exposure to violence and trauma.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evolution of the human head has had a profound impact on our propensity for violence and criminal behavior. As our brains and facial features have developed over millions of years, we have gained the ability to reason, make decisions, and inflict harm on others. While these changes have certainly contributed to the development of crime, they are only one of many factors that influence human behavior. By understanding the complex interplay between anatomy, society, and environment, we can begin to address the root causes of criminal activity and work towards a safer, more just world.