The Positive School of criminology introduced several theories that aimed to explain criminal behavior based on scientific principles and empirical observations. Some of the key theories associated with the Positive School include:
1. **Cesare Lombroso's Theory of the "Born Criminal":**
Cesare Lombroso is often considered the father of modern criminology and a central figure in the Positive School. He proposed the theory that certain individuals were "born criminals" due to their physical characteristics and innate predisposition to criminal behavior. Lombroso believed that criminals displayed primitive physical traits reminiscent of earlier stages of human evolution. He conducted extensive anatomical and anthropological studies to identify these traits, which he thought were indicative of criminal tendencies. However, this theory has been heavily criticized for its lack of scientific rigor and its deterministic nature.
2. **Enrico Ferri's Theory of Social Determinism:**
Enrico Ferri expanded on the biological determinism proposed by Lombroso by emphasizing the importance of social and environmental factors in influencing criminal behavior. He believed that while there might be some biological predispositions, the social environment played a crucial role in shaping an individual's propensity towards criminal acts. Ferri introduced the concept of "criminal anthropology," which sought to analyze the interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors in the development of criminal behavior. He advocated for a more humane and rehabilitative approach to dealing with offenders.
3. **Raffaele Garofalo's Theory of Criminal Anthropology:**
Raffaele Garofalo built upon Lombroso's work and introduced the concept of "moral insanity." He argued that criminals exhibited a form of psychological abnormality that led them to commit crimes without a clear motive or rational consideration. Garofalo's focus was on understanding the mental and emotional state of criminals rather than solely relying on physical traits.
4. **Charles Goring's Theory of Hereditary Genius:**
Charles Goring challenged Lombroso's theory by conducting a comprehensive study of criminals in England. His research suggested that there was no distinct physical trait that separated criminals from non-criminals. Instead, he proposed that criminal behavior was influenced by hereditary factors related to intelligence and personality. Goring's work highlighted the complexities of the relationship between genetics and criminality.
5. **William Sheldon's Somatotype Theory:**
While not directly part of the traditional Positive School, William Sheldon's somatotype theory also aligns with the focus on biological factors. Sheldon classified individuals into three body types and theorized that certain body types were more predisposed to criminal behavior. He suggested that mesomorphs, with their more muscular and active physique, were more likely to engage in aggressive and criminal activities.