Seven Deadly Sins: The Biology of Being Human by Dr. Guy Leschziner is a nonfiction book in which a doctor recounts how the seven deadly sins (as noted in Christian theology) that people exhibit are not always caused by moral failings but can also stem from other biological factors, such as brain chemistry. Dr. Leschziner explores each sin, presenting a case or cases that he has worked on or reviewed, and details their neuroscientific and psychological foundations, along with any medical disorders that could have contributed to them. He explains that some of these traits may arise from a person’s drive to survive and thrive in their environment.
I found the book to be an interesting read. It was a bit longer than I expected or needed, though. I felt that when Dr. Leschziner delved too deeply into scientific research and details, my eyes glazed over, and I often got lost. However, I enjoyed reading about the cases he mentioned and how they connected to each sin; these were my favorite parts of the book. I also felt a bit conflicted. I always view people who “sinned” as doing it woefully and not as something they were “doing against their will” because of some medical issue or disorder. Putting that thought aside, it was interesting food for thought while reading each chapter. While Dr. Leschziner is a skilled writer, I don’t think I would read another one of his books, as they lean too heavily on science and medical research.
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