Biological Explanations: A Historical Approach

This page explores the biological theory of crime, focusing on Cesare Lombroso's pioneering work in the late 19th century. Lombroso's theory of atavism is a cornerstone of biological positivism in criminology.

Lombroso's Theory of Atavism

Lombroso (1876) proposed that criminals were 'genetic throwbacks' who lacked evolutionary development, making it impossible for them to adjust to civilized society. This theory suggests that biological determinants of criminal behavior are rooted in genes, leading to an innate tendency towards offending.

Definition: Atavistic Form - The idea that offenders have particular physiological 'markers' linked to specific types of offenses.

Offender Types and Characteristics

Lombroso identified several types of criminals based on physical characteristics:

• Murderers: bloodshot eyes, curly hair, long ears
• Sexual deviants: glinting eyes, swollen fleshy lips, projecting ears
• Fraudsters: thin and 'reedy' lips

Example: General criminal characteristics included cranial features like narrow sloping brows, strong prominent jaws, and facial asymmetry, as well as other markers such as dark skin, extra digits, and insensitivity to pain.

Lombroso's Research and Legacy

Lombroso examined the skulls of 383 dead and 3,839 living convicts, concluding that 40% of criminal acts were committed by people with atavistic characteristics. His work is considered foundational in modern criminology.

Highlight: Lombroso is often referred to as the 'father of modern criminology' for shifting crime research towards a more scientific approach.

Criticisms and Counterpoints

Despite his influence, Lombroso's theory has faced significant criticism:

1. Racial bias: DeLisi (2012) noted racist undertones in Lombroso's theory.
2. Lack of evidence: Goring (1913) found no evidence supporting unusual cranial characteristics in offenders.
3. Poor methodology: Lombroso failed to control for important variables and use proper control groups.

Quote: "Lombroso's research does not meet modern scientific standards." - This highlights the flaws in his methodology.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate

The nature versus nurture debate in criminology remains relevant. While Lombroso's theory emphasizes biological causes (nature theory in criminology), modern studies recognize the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Vocabulary: Nature vs. Nurture - The ongoing debate in criminology about whether criminal behavior is primarily influenced by genetic factors (nature) or environmental factors (nurture).

This historical approach to biological causes of crime provides a foundation for understanding how the field has evolved, leading to more nuanced modern studies on the interplay between biology and environment in criminal behavior.