Meaning: The quote "We assume people we know can't be serial killers" by Pat Brown, an American criminal profiler and television commentator, highlights a common psychological phenomenon known as "the assumption of normality." This phenomenon refers to the tendency of individuals to assume that those around them, particularly individuals they know and trust, are inherently good and incapable of committing heinous acts such as serial murder.

Pat Brown's quote brings to light the notion that people often overlook the possibility that someone they know could be involved in criminal behavior, particularly of a serious and disturbing nature. This assumption is deeply ingrained in human psychology and is rooted in the desire to maintain a sense of safety and security within one's social circle. It is easier for individuals to believe that those they are close to are fundamentally good and trustworthy, rather than entertain the unsettling possibility that they may be capable of committing acts of violence.

The assumption of normality has been the subject of extensive research within the fields of psychology and criminology. Studies have shown that people tend to underestimate the prevalence of criminal behavior within their social networks, leading to a sense of shock and disbelief when someone they know is implicated in a serious crime. This cognitive bias can have significant implications for criminal investigations and the ability of law enforcement to identify and apprehend perpetrators, as it may lead to overlooking potential suspects or dismissing warning signs of criminal behavior.

One of the key factors contributing to the assumption of normality is the phenomenon of cognitive dissonance, which occurs when individuals experience discomfort or tension when faced with information that contradicts their beliefs or attitudes. In the context of the quote, the idea that someone we know could be a serial killer challenges our deeply-held beliefs about the nature of the people in our lives, creating cognitive dissonance and leading us to rationalize or dismiss evidence that contradicts our assumptions.

Moreover, the portrayal of serial killers in popular culture and media has also contributed to the assumption of normality. Fictional depictions often present serial killers as strangers or outsiders, perpetuating the misconception that individuals within one's social circle are unlikely to engage in such behavior. This reinforces the belief that those we know are "normal" and incapable of committing such atrocities, further perpetuating the assumption of normality.

In reality, serial killers and other perpetrators of serious crimes often conceal their true nature behind a façade of normalcy, making it difficult for those around them to recognize the warning signs. This underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and aware of the potential for criminal behavior within any social circle, as well as the need to overcome the assumption of normality in order to address and prevent violent crimes.

Overall, Pat Brown's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the psychological tendency to overlook the possibility of criminal behavior within our social circles. It encourages us to critically examine our assumptions and biases, and to remain mindful of the potential for individuals we know to be involved in criminal activities, including the most shocking and abhorrent of crimes such as serial murder. By acknowledging and overcoming the assumption of normality, we can better protect ourselves and others from the devastating impact of violent crime.