Lieven Pauwels

Lieven Pauwels is a Professor in the Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law at Ghent University's Faculty of Law and Criminology. His academic work bridges criminological theory with evolutionary biology and moral philosophy, creating a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding human behavior and social systems.

His research interests focus on the evolutionary foundations of morality, cooperation, and free will, examining how biological processes shape human social behavior and ethical systems. He also conducts significant research on drug policy and the social costs of legal and illegal substances in Belgium, providing evidence-based analysis for policy development. His work demonstrates how evolutionary perspectives can inform contemporary criminological theory and social policy.

Pauwels' publication record shows a clear trend toward integrating biological and evolutionary perspectives with traditional criminological frameworks. His recent work explores topics ranging from the neurobiological basis of free will to the evolutionary roots of moral emotions like shame and indignation. This interdisciplinary approach has positioned him as a distinctive voice in European criminology that challenges conventional disciplinary boundaries.

• Economic consequences of legal and illegal drugs (2017)
• Multiple publications on evolutionary biology and morality (2025)
• Analysis of cancel culture through historical criminological perspectives (2025)

While specific grant information isn't provided in the available text, his research on drug policy social costs suggests involvement in significant policy-oriented research projects, likely funded by Belgian or European research councils. His work appears designed to inform practical policy decisions while contributing to theoretical advancements in criminology.

Pauwels maintains an active research program focused on the intersection of biology, evolution, and social behavior, with recent work examining contemporary social issues like cancel culture through historical and evolutionary lenses. His research demonstrates continuity between theoretical criminology and practical policy concerns, particularly regarding substance abuse and social costs.