Abstract representation of Merton's Strain Theory in criminology.

Robert K. Merton and Criminology: Contributions, Theories, and Impact

Introduction Robert K. Merton stands as one of the most influential sociologists of the 20th century. His theories and concepts, particularly in the realm of criminology, have shaped the way scholars and practitioners understand the roots of deviant behavior. Known primarily for his Strain Theory, Merton offered a framework for analyzing how societal structures contribute…

Portrait of Cesare Beccaria in a scholarly setting with books and manuscripts.

Cesare Beccaria: The Pioneer of Classical Criminology

Cesare Beccaria (1738–1794) is widely recognized as one of the founding figures of classical criminology. His groundbreaking work, Dei delitti e delle pene (On Crimes and Punishments), published in 1764, profoundly influenced the development of modern legal systems and criminological thought. By advocating for rationality, proportionality, and fairness in the administration of justice, Beccaria sought…

Scientific contributions of Cesare Lombroso

Cesare Lombroso: The Father of Modern Criminology

Cesare Lombroso, often hailed as the “Father of Modern Criminology,” revolutionized the study of crime by introducing a scientific approach to understanding criminal behavior. Prior to Lombroso, criminology was largely influenced by moralistic and philosophical perspectives, with little emphasis on empirical evidence. Lombroso’s groundbreaking theories, particularly his concept of the “born criminal,” laid the foundation…

Criminology and Moral Sense: Insights from Garofalo

The Role of Raffaele Garofalo in Criminology

Criminology, as a field of study, has undergone significant evolution since its inception. Among the pioneering figures who shaped this discipline, Raffaele Garofalo stands out as a central contributor to the Positivist School of Criminology. His innovative concepts, particularly the notion of “natural crime,” have had a lasting impact on the way crime and criminal…

Contributions of Lombroso, Ferri, and Garofalo to Criminology

Contributions of Lombroso, Enrico Ferri, and Garofalo to Criminology

Introduction Criminology, as a scientific discipline, has undergone significant evolution since its inception. The 19th century witnessed a paradigm shift from philosophical and theological explanations of crime to empirical and scientific approaches. At the forefront of this transformation were three Italian scholars: Cesare Lombroso, Enrico Ferri, and Raffaele Garofalo. Together, they laid the foundations of…

A historical depiction of a 19th-century scholar analyzing facial features and skull shapes in a classic library setting, symbolizing early scientific studies on criminal behavior before the positivist school.

Early Scientific Interpretations Before the Positivist School : History of criminology

The study of crime and criminal behavior has long intrigued philosophers, theologians, and early scientists. Before the emergence of the positivist school in the 19th century, interpretations of criminal behavior were shaped by religious doctrines, philosophical inquiries, and nascent scientific approaches. These interpretations laid the groundwork for the evolution of criminology as a distinct field….

Image reflecting the academic theme of the essay on the historical journey of criminology.

The Historical Journey of Criminology: From Early Theories to the Positivist School

The study of criminology has evolved over centuries, mirroring the broader progress of human thought and scientific discovery. At its core, criminology seeks to understand the causes, consequences, and prevention of criminal behavior—an endeavor that has been shaped by diverse philosophical, religious, and scientific perspectives. As societies grappled with the challenges of crime and deviance,…

Influence of marital status on criminal behavior

The Influence of Civil Status on Criminal Behavior

Criminal behavior is a complex phenomenon influenced by a variety of social, psychological, and environmental factors. Among these, civil status—whether an individual is single, married, divorced, or widowed—plays a significant role. Understanding how civil status affects criminal tendencies can provide insights into social structures and guide policymakers in developing targeted prevention strategies. This article explores…

What is the age-crime curve?

The Role of Age in Criminal Behavior

The study of criminal behavior is a multidisciplinary endeavor, encompassing sociology, psychology, and criminology. Among the many factors that influence criminal activity, age emerges as a crucial determinant. Research consistently shows that criminal behavior varies significantly across different age groups, with distinct patterns, motivations, and societal impacts. Understanding the role of age in criminal behavior…

Conceptual illustration of criminology with symbols for age, civil status, and justice scales.

Internal Incidental Factors: The Age and Civil Status of the Criminal

Understanding the motivations and influences behind criminal behavior requires a comprehensive examination of various internal and external factors. Among these, the internal incidental factors such as age and civil status play a crucial role in shaping the patterns and types of crimes committed. These factors provide valuable insights into the psychological, social, and environmental dynamics…