Reviewing the Fault Line - Monoamine Oxidase-A Genotype Evidence and the Criminal Law

Abstract

Recent advances in behavioural genetics suggest that there is a significant genetic component associated with the risk of criminality. This paper focusses on the MAOA gene, a gene which has been linked to aggressive and antisocial behaviour, and analyses what role such genetic evidence should play in the criminal law. In particular, this paper will explore the role of genetic predisposition evidence during sentencing, and will reflect on some associated ethical concerns, and the dangers of misinterpretation. This research highlights that genetic predisposition evidence may be relevant in sentencing. However, there is a potential for the evidence to be construed as both an aggravating and mitigating factor.

This is a field in which we must proceed with care. Science has a huge potential to assist decision makers, improve the criminal process and allow justice to be done. However, the other side of the coin is misinterpretation and abuse.