Who believed that genetic inheritance and or abnormality led to a higher risk of crime?

Who believed that genetic inheritance and or abnormality led to a higher risk of crime?

• A. Lombroso
• B. Durkheim
• C. Bentham
• D. Merton

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that crime risk can be linked to biology or inheritance. Cesare Lombroso is the figure who argued that criminality stems from inherited traits or physiological abnormalities—the notion of atavism and “born criminals.” He claimed criminals are biologically different and that certain physical features or anomalies signal a predisposition to crime, emphasizing genetic or congenital factors. In contrast, the other figures approach crime from social or philosophical angles. Durkheim saw crime as a normal part of society with functions tied to social structure, Bentham focused on the utilitarian calculation of punishment, and Merton explained crime through strain between cultural goals and available means. Their explanations center on social factors rather than biology, which is why Lombroso is the best fit for the statement.

The idea being tested is that crime risk can be linked to biology or inheritance. Cesare Lombroso is the figure who argued that criminality stems from inherited traits or physiological abnormalities—the notion of atavism and “born criminals.” He claimed criminals are biologically different and that certain physical features or anomalies signal a predisposition to crime, emphasizing genetic or congenital factors.

In contrast, the other figures approach crime from social or philosophical angles. Durkheim saw crime as a normal part of society with functions tied to social structure, Bentham focused on the utilitarian calculation of punishment, and Merton explained crime through strain between cultural goals and available means. Their explanations center on social factors rather than biology, which is why Lombroso is the best fit for the statement.