Effective And Ethically Defensible Methods Of Reducing Crime

Critically discuss whether biologically theories are capable of giving rise to effective and ethically defensible methods of reducing crime This essay will argue that the theory that biology, psychology, neurology can give a partial answer to finding effective and ethically defensible methods of reducing crime is supported. Through looking at the chapters dealing with biological theories, genetic, biochemical factors and neuroscience the author strives to structure the developing argument that an explanation cannot be achieved without considering the role of environment and external factors as a whole in the process of determining criminality and the criminal mind. The concept of crime is not genetic or natural; it is socially and†¦show more content†¦frontal lobotomy, psychosurgery, chemical and surgical castration. Biological theories Positivism, in relation to criminology, can be separated into three types: Biological (Lombroso), Psychological (Freud), and Social (Park, Durkheim). The purpose of positivism is to find objective facts, based on a scientific approach, â€Å"requiring direct empirical evidence and its careful analysis†. A predecessor to Positivism was Classicism, formulated by Beccaria. The principle of classical criminology is that there is a rational decision in the criminal’s mind to commit the said crime, and â€Å"all men being by nature self-seeking are liable to commit crime†. The difference between positivism and classicism is that the former treats criminals as biologically (psychologically, sociologically) different from noncriminals, and looks for one or all three of those reasons of a criminal mind. On the other hand, the latter considers a person as free, rational and governed by self-interest. Thus they are capable of putting a reason behind their actions and are responsible for the consequences. Biological theories look for a biological imbalance in individuals, which might cause a predisposition towards criminal behaviour. Lombroso was influenced by phrenology in his theory - phrenology is the idea that the shape of your skull defines your character. He also coined the term â€Å"born