Theories

Spiritualism

Historical explanation of crime through supernatural causes such as temptation by the devil or possession.

Compurgation

A medieval practice where accused individuals swore oaths of innocence and provided character witnesses.

Classical School of Criminology

Shift from supernatural explanations to the idea that people are rational beings who weigh the consequences of their actions.

Cesare Beccaria

Leader of the Classical School, criticized harsh criminal justice systems and emphasized clear laws, presumption of innocence, and proportionate punishment.

Neoclassical Theory of Crime

Modified version of the Classical School that allowed judicial discretion and recognized individual differences among offenders.

Positivist School of Criminology

Focused on scientific methods and believed criminal behavior could be explained through biology and psychology.

Cesare Lombroso

Known as the 'Father of Modern Criminology,' he applied Darwin’s evolutionary theory to crime and identified physical features of criminals.

Somatotype Theory

William Sheldon’s theory linking body types to crime: ectomorphs (thin, least criminal), mesomorphs (muscular, most criminal), endomorphs (round, easy-going).

Social Learning Theory

Bandura's theory that criminal behavior is learned through observation and imitation.

Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD)

A mental health disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of disregard for the rights of others, deceitfulness, and impulsivity.

Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development

A framework outlining how individuals' moral reasoning develops, with stages ranging from avoidance of punishment to adherence to universal ethical principles.

Low Self-Control Theory

Proposes that low self-control, often developed in childhood, leads to criminal behavior throughout one's life.

Psychoanalytic Theory

Sigmund Freud's theory that unconscious forces drive human behavior, affecting moral decision-making and potentially leading to criminal actions.

Social Concern Theory

Agnew's theory emphasizing that concern for the welfare of others and adherence to moral norms can influence behavior and reduce crime.

Evolutionary Theory of Crime

Suggests that criminal behavior is biologically determined, influenced by survival instincts and pro-social behavior.

Russell Williams

Colonel in the Canadian Forces who was convicted of multiple crimes, including murder and sexual assault.