What are the common threads/ideas that run through the biological theories, from those that originally proposed in the eighteenth century through those still discussed today?

What will be an ideal response?


Possible answer: The key link between early biological theories and current biosocial theories is the idea that criminal behavior can be inherited and explained with biological processes. Earlier theories held tightly the notion of determinism – that inheritance either occurred or was absent. Later biosocial thought suggests that inheritance only shapes one's risk for expressing criminal behavior across the life course. Early biological theorists did not have the tools current scientists have to explore the complex nature of the brain, brain chemistry, neurological pathways, hormones, genetic differences, and beyond. Instead, they tried to use phenotype differences to allude to biological differences. These efforts failed to garner empirical support while current techniques show promise.

Criminal Justice

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A sentence of 8 to 25 years under the supervision of the state department of correction is an example of ________ sentencing

a. consecutive b. concurrent c. indeterminate d. structured

Criminal Justice

A Black woman is on trial in a predominantly Black community. However, during jury selection, her attorney recognizes that the entire jury pool is White. If the attorney believes that the jury pool was selected improperly, the attorney might seek to discharge the entire venire using a ______.

A. challenge for cause B. peremptory challenge C. challenge of the venire D. challenge to the array

Criminal Justice

Explain the nature versus nurture debate. Design a hypothetical study to test these competing ideas.

What will be an ideal response?

Criminal Justice

predictive policing

What will be an ideal response?

Criminal Justice