Book Talk: Coltan Scrivner - Morbidly Curious

Morbidly Curious Book Talk with Coltan Scrivner, Ph.D.

Join us for a chilling evening with Coltan Scrivner, Ph.D., as he dives into the psychology of the macabre in his new book, Morbidly Curious.

Why do we peek at car wrecks, binge true crime, or flock to horror movies? Scrivner takes us inside the science of morbid curiosity, revealing why humans are compelled to explore their darkest fears—and how this instinct helps us prepare for real-world threats.

Blending cutting-edge research and eerie fieldwork at haunted houses worldwide, Morbidly Curious makes a powerful case for the value of playing with fear. Whether you’re a horror fan or simply curious about human nature, this talk will open your eyes to the hidden benefits of exploring the dark side.

Books will be available for signing and purchase.

About the Author:

Coltan Scrivner, PhD, is a behavioral scientist and horror entertainment producer. He is the world’s leading expert on the science behind morbid curiosity and the appeal of frightening entertainment. He is also the executive director of the Nightmare in the Ozarks Film Festival and the Eureka Springs Zombie Crawl, one of the largest gatherings of zombies in the world.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, United States