Compare And Contrast Biological Crime Theory

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Recommended: Comparing the biological and social explanations of criminality

In criminology, there is a very important debate of how crime should be handled and prevented. Many theories have come about over the years to try and find why crime is committed. Theories still continue to be looked at and explored today, individually and in combination, this will help us to find the best solutions in reducing the different types and levels of crime. In this essay I shall explore two theories and discuss the advantages and disadvantages and compare them against each other. I have chosen to look at Biological and
Biological crime theories began in the 16th century with the ideas of J. Babtiste Della Porte (1535 - 1615). He was the founder of human physiognomy. Human physiognomy is the study of physical features to determine an individual’s characteristics. Early biological theorists studied physical features to make assessments about a person’s criminal propensity (Kroeber, 2006). Some people believe that it is said that if criminality can be inherited, then an offender can be identified by physical appearance and is believed to distinguish criminal behaviour(Farrington, D., 1996). …show more content…

The psychological modeling theory of imitation was first introduced by theorist Gabriel Tarde (1843-1904). This psychological viewpoint explains how that people are learning how to behave by modeling themselves from watching what other people do. The best way to support Tarde in his theory is through analyzing the individual, personality is the major motivational component, criminal behavior is purposeful for the individual, normality is defined by social accord, and crime results from inappropriate mental processes. Furthermore, inappropriate mental processes have many causes to include diseases of the mind, inappropriate learning or improper conditioning, and poor role models (Schmalleger, 2006, p.

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