Why are there so many pedophiles?

[Neon Gods]

42. Interesting question.

Where did the 4% number come from, btw. Is that the % that actually abuse children or the % that have been tempted? I doubt if 4% have actually acted on their impulses (I hope!). I really believe most pedophiles know they are doing wrong, I mean it's such a huge taboo and taboos are quickly learned. I'm sure earlier societies probably tortured and killed pedophiles.

This really needs to be studied (and I'm sure someone is). Does being abused as a child increase the chances of becoming a pedophile? If it's hard-wired then we might be able to detect it. Can some be cured? Maybe not but therapy might work on those with a capacity for empathy by showing them just how damaging it is to the victims. It completely ruins their lives, completely. Many eventually commit suicide. Knowing that, anyone who can feel empathy for others might fully understand that their pleasure is not worth damning a child to a hellacious life. But to test that theory we'd have to let some back into society...and what if it fails?