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Hannibal Lecter, the villain created by author Thomas Harris and immortalized in movies by Anthony Hopkins, is many things. Cannibal connoisseur and creative serial killer often get the most attention, but Lecter is also a philosopher. The new book 鈥淗annibal Lecter and Philosophy: The Heart of the Matter,鈥� delves more deeply into Lecter鈥檚 philosophical ways, and includes a chapter by Dr. Derrick L. Hassert, professor of psychology, chair, area head, social and behavioural sciences.

In his chapter 鈥淭he Psychiatrist as Sociopathic God,鈥� Hassert explores how Lecter addresses the 鈥淏ig Questions,鈥� which concern the nature of God, humanity, and evil. As Lecter asks FBI agent in training Clarice Starling in the film version of 鈥淭he Silence of the Lambs:鈥� 鈥淥f each particular thing ask, What is it in itself? What is its nature? What does he do, this man you seek?鈥�

Looking at the Lecter books and films, Hassert urges readers to understand how Lecter鈥檚 desire for friendship represents an essential part of human existence. He suggests readers consider the choices they make, the behaviours they exhibit and the nature they reveal to themselves and the world. He reminds readers that, unlike Lecter, 鈥淎lso, plying people with mind-altering drugs may get you into trouble鈥︹��

Hassert first learned about the plans for the book from Dr. Aron Reppmann, professor of philosophy and department chair. Knowing Hassert鈥檚 interest in pop culture, Reppmann forwarded an email that called for abstracts from the book鈥檚 editor, Joseph Westfall, in 2014. Westfall accepted Hassert鈥檚 abstract and provided helpful feedback throughout the writing process, Hassert said. While most of the authors are philosophers, Hassert brings his background in psychology, behavioral therapy, and neuroscience to his chapter.

And with favorable reviews on Amazon.com and in 鈥淔angoria鈥� magazine, 鈥淚鈥檓 happy to be included in a book that people might buy,鈥� Hassert said with a laugh.