Theories of Crime

Paper Summary:

This paper compares and contrasts biological, biosocial and classical theories of crime. It discusses whether there is a value in using biological or biosocial concepts in criminology in contrast to strictly adhering to classical theory. The paper then looks at the philosophies of biological/biosocial advocates and discusses if supporters of the classical school would agree with these concepts philosophically or in terms of current crime control practices that they advocate.

From the Paper:

"Biosocial theories stress that there is a need for society to change, as well as for the individual to change. Society must present so-called criminals with a greater range of life options, so that choosing to behave in more positive and productive ways seems more desirable and rational. New role models are needed for individuals in crime-ridden areas that do not validate the existence of a life of crime. However, the one aspect of crime prevention and treatment both the biosocial and classical schools do agree upon is the need to make crime less attractive through prevention, through the use of a positive police presence in communities, neighborhood watch groups, and vigilance of the community by law-abiding citizens. A positive law-abiding community will make the idea of committing crimes seem emotionally and socially as well as rationally less attractive."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Greek, Cecil. (2005). "Criminological Theory." Retrieved 17 Dec 2007 at http://www.criminology.fsu.edu/crimtheory/lectures.htm
• Keel, Robert. (12 Feb 2007). "Biological and Psychological Theories of Deviance." Retrieved 17 Dec 2007 at http://www.umsl.edu/~keelr/200/biotheor.html
• Keel, Robert. (12 Feb 2007). "Theories of Deviance." Retrieved 17 Dec 2007 at http://www.umsl.edu/~keelr/200/devtheor.html

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