Known as "The Moor Murders", the case of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley's torture, sexual abuse, and murder of a child and two teenagers in the early 1960s is thought to be the most appalling series of crimes ever committed in England. To understand human character, one must first explore the depraved reaches of human consciousness. So believes novelist and true-crime writer Colin Wilson, who introduces Brady's book. Brady first explores human impulse based on his readings, observations, and life story. He then analyzes a dozen other serial crimes and serial murderers.