Criminal Behavior and Genetics

Paper Summary:

This is a high level essay discussing the implications of genetics in criminal behavior which then focuses on the argument of whether or not genetics and DNA should successfully be implicated for their role within the context of a criminal defense. The stance taken for this paper is that this is not a viable defense for criminal activity. The paper cites current research.

From the Paper:

"The question of "nature vs. nurture" relative to the role of aberrant behavioral displays has been one that is long debated, filled with considerable research and vested interests on both sides of the debate and one that is not likely to be resolved in our lifetime. This paper will present a high level argument demonstrating that a defendant's genes, while potentially a contributory factor, do not by themselves excuse criminal behavior. Three factors will be reviewed: genetic predispositions and what they mean, role of the environment and the legal implications for genetic defenses. "Genetic Predispositions Tehrani and Mednick" (2000 as cited by Jones, 2005) concluded that there was conclusive evidence of a genetic "component" in criminal behavior."

More papers on Criminal Behavior and Genetics:

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• Essay # 97611 : "Biological Influences on Criminal Behavior"

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