Assignment 4: Positivism Paper Learning Objective And Basis
Assignment 4 Positivism Paperlearning Objective And Basis For Assess
Assignment 4 - Positivism Paper Learning Objective and Basis for Assessment: Successful completion of this assignment the student will be able to utilize criminological theory to explain reasons for crime. Based on your readings (Introduction, Part 1 and 2), you are to identify one infamous criminal offender and apply the concepts of Positivism to explain his or her criminal behavior. First, answer the following questions, articulating your answers with supporting information from what you have learned: What are the major concepts of Positivism or biological theories of crime? What was Lombroso’s contribution to the study of criminal behavior? What was his theory of crime and why was he known as the father of criminology? What is the nature versus nurture debate as found in the modern biosocial perspective? What are some examples of studies examining this debate? Second, identify one infamous criminal offender and provide a brief summary of his or her criminal behavior and activities. Based on the Positivism perspective, provide an explanation for the offender’s criminal behaviors and activities, articulating whether the offender was influenced by nature, by nurture, or by both. This paper should be a minimum of 4 pages of written text (not to include the cover page and reference page), double spaced, and should include a minimum of 4 academically credible references (the textbook may count as 1 academic reference). Sources should be cited within the text and on the reference page using standard APA format. Please be sure to cite where it is needed , that is what was missing in last paper. Thanks!
Paper For Above instruction
The pursuit of understanding criminal behavior has long been a focus of criminological studies, with positivism standing out as a significant theoretical approach. Positivism emphasizes the influence of biological, psychological, and social factors in the genesis of criminal conduct, challenging earlier classical notions that centered solely on free will and rational choice. This paper explores essential concepts of positivism, discusses Cesare Lombroso’s contributions to criminology, examines the nature versus nurture debate within a biosocial perspective, and applies these ideas to analyze the criminal behavior of an infamous offender.
Major Concepts of Positivism and Biological Theories of Crime
Positivism, rooted in the scientific method, posits that criminal behavior results from factors beyond rational choice, emphasizing research into biological, psychological, and social determinants. Biological theories of crime suggest that genetics, neurophysiological abnormalities, and physical traits can predispose individuals to criminality. These theories search for inherent qualities that differentiate offenders from non-offenders, emphasizing traits such as head size, facial features, and genetic markers (Siegel, 2019). The core concept of positivism is that crime is caused by identifiable factors that can be scientifically measured and potentially remedied.
Lombroso’s Contribution to Criminology and His Theory of Crime
Cesare Lombroso (1835–1909), often hailed as the father of criminology, revolutionized the discipline by proposing that criminality could be studied scientifically through physical characteristics. Lombroso argued that some individuals are “born criminals,” possessing physiological anomalies that predispose them to criminal behavior. His “atavistic” theory suggested that criminals exhibit primitive traits, such as large jaws, prominent cheekbones, and asymmetrical faces, reflecting an evolutionary regression (Lombroso, 1911). Lombroso’s belief was that criminal tendencies could be identified through physical stigmata, thus shifting criminology towards a more empirical and biological approach. Although his methodology faced criticism, his work laid the foundation for later biosocial studies.
Nature versus Nurture in the Modern Biosocial Perspective
The modern biosocial perspective integrates biological and environmental factors, acknowledging that both genetic predispositions and social influences shape criminal behavior. The debate centers on whether criminal tendencies are primarily inherited (nature) or learned through socialization (nurture). Recent studies utilize twin research, adoption studies, and neuroimaging to examine this interplay. For example, research showing higher concordance rates for criminal behavior among monozygotic twins supports genetic influence, while environmental factors such as childhood maltreatment or peer associations also contribute significantly (Raine, 2013). The consensus leans toward a synergistic model where biology and environment interact dynamically to influence criminal conduct.
Application to an Infamous Criminal Offender
For this analysis, the criminal offender selected is Ted Bundy, a notorious serial killer active in the 1970s. Bundy’s criminal activities involved abduction, assault, and murder, suggesting psychopathic traits and a lack of remorse. Applying a positivist lens, several explanations emerge. Some researchers have examined Bundy’s neuropsychological profile, noting atypical brain activity, especially in areas related to empathy and impulse control, supporting biological influences (Ressler, 1992). Genetic factors, combined with early childhood experiences, such as possible familial abuse or neglect, could have contributed to his violent tendencies. The biosocial perspective would suggest that Bundy’s criminal behavior was influenced by both inherent biological vulnerabilities, such as neurological abnormalities, and environmental factors, including his dysfunctional family environment.
Research indicates that Bundy exhibited characteristics consistent with neurological impairments, such as antisocial personality disorder, which has biological underpinnings (Hare, 1993). These findings align with Lombroso’s early assertions that physical and neurological anomalies could predispose individuals to crime. However, social influences—such as experiences of rejection, social isolation, and exposure to violence—likely exacerbated these tendencies, illustrating the complex interplay of nature and nurture in his case.
Conclusion
Positivism and biological theories of crime represent a significant paradigm shift from classical criminology, emphasizing scientific investigation into the determinants of criminal behavior. Lombroso’s pioneering work introduced the idea that physiological traits could indicate criminal propensity, laying groundwork for contemporary biosocial research. The modern debate of nature versus nurture continues to evolve, acknowledging the complex factors that contribute to offending. Analyzing Ted Bundy through this lens demonstrates how biological and environmental factors can interact to produce extreme criminal actions, supporting the integrated biosocial approach. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.
References
- Hare, R. D. (1993). Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us. Guilford Press.
- Lombroso, C. (1911). Criminal Types. J. M. Dent & Sons.
- Raine, A. (2013). The Anatomy of Violence: The Biological Roots of Crime. Pantheon Books.
- Ressler, R. K. (1992). Whoever Fights Monsters: My Thousands of Cases as a Criminal profiler. St. Martin's Press.
- Siegel, L. J. (2019). Criminology: The Core (7th Edition). Cengage Learning.