Provide a definition and brief summary of positivism.
What will be an ideal response?
Positivism is simply the scientific method from which more positive knowledge can be obtained. Positivists insisted on divorcing science from metaphysics (talk of free will and the like) and morals and on looking only at what is, not what ought to be. The Enlightenment’s flattering image of human beings gave way to the evolutionary view that we are different only in degree from other animals, and science could explain human behavior just as it could explain events in the physical world. Positivists were more concerned with discovering biological, psychological, or social determinants of criminal behavior than with the classical concerns of legal and penal reforms.
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The phenomenon in which police officers shoot in response to another officer shooting without fully considering the necessity of that level of force is called ___________
Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).
Research indicates the Taser is significantly more effective as a police tool for gaining compliance and control over a resisting suspect.
a. true b. false
The United States has a dual court system consisting of:
a. district and superior courts. c. criminal and civil courts. b. trial and appellate courts. d. state and federal courts.
Which of the following behaviors are criminal only when committed by a child or youth?
a. Shoplifting a candy bar b. Drinking alcohol c. Speeding d. Joyriding