Pretty Evil

Charles Sobhraj & The Psychology of Trust

When people picture a serial killer, they often imagine someone who immediately feels unsettling. Charles Sobhraj challenges that assumption. Throughout the 1970s, Sobhraj moved effortlessly through the backpacker communities of Southeast Asia, presenting himself as a sophisticated gem dealer, seasoned traveler, and trusted friend. His victims weren't simply chosen at random—they were people who believed they had found someone willing to help them navigate an unfamiliar world. In this episode of Pretty Evil, we explore the psychology behind one of history's most charismatic predators and ask why emotionally intelligent manipulators are often so difficult to recognize.