6.1- Positivism

What historical movements precede Positivism in criminology?

Positivism followed Classicism.

How did Classicism originally explain crime?

Classicism was originally used to explain crime through philosophical rights.

What is Positivism's focus compared to Classicism?

Positivism focuses on scientific explanations of crime, whereas Classicism focuses on philosophical rights.

What is one of the key tenets of Positivism regarding scientific observation?

The neutrality of the 'scientist observer'.

What does Positivism claim about the concept of science?

Positivism claims that the concept of science is value-free, but it is now known that 'value-free' is impossible.

What limitation do Positivists acknowledge?

They acknowledge one's limitations, knowledge, and values.

What is emphasized in the scientific method of Positivism?

The importance of the scientific method and the belief that the world is knowable.

What does the Principle of Differentiation state?

There is an inherent difference between offenders and non-offenders.

What does the Pathology perspective link to criminal behavior?

Pathology links distinctions directly to the differences that drive criminal behavior.

How is the concept of Determinism viewed in Positivism?

Determinism is accepted as the root cause of offending, suggesting that biological and/or social processes determine criminal behavior.

What is the Pre-destined Model in Positivism?

The Pre-destined Model considers one's genetic make-up and environmental circumstances as factors influencing criminal behavior.

What are the major schools of Positivism in criminology?

The major schools are Biological and Psychological, which are often intertwined.

Can some sociological views be considered within Positivism?

Yes, some sociological views are also considered positivist.