THE FATHER OF MODERN CRIMINOLOGY

 CESARE LOMBROSO: THE FATHER OF MODERN CRIMINOLOGY


One name always comes up when discussing the beginnings of criminology as a scientific discipline: Cesare Lombroso. Often referred to be the "father of modern criminology," Lombroso made important advances that influenced how we currently investigate crime and criminal behavior.

 

WHO WAS CESARE LOMBROSO?

Italian physician and criminologist Cesare Lombroso was born in 1835. Through his work in the late 19th century, the area of crime studies moved away from simply philosophical or moralistic viewpoints and toward some of the first systematic approaches to the subject. Lombroso's views were groundbreaking at the time they were proposed, and even if some of them have subsequently been improved upon and questioned, his influence cannot be denied.

 

WHAT DID HE CONTRIBUTE?

Lombroso is perhaps best known for his theory of the "born criminal." He proposed that certain individuals were predisposed to criminal behavior due to inherited physical characteristics. According to Lombroso, these "born criminals" could be identified by specific features such as facial asymmetry, a large jaw, and a receding chin. His approach was groundbreaking because it attempted to apply a scientific, empirical method to the study of crime.

Even though Lombroso's theory that biology determines criminal conduct has been substantially debunked, his advocacy of a scientific method of crime research was revolutionary. His insistence on employing facts and empirical research laid the foundation for modern criminology. His emphasis on exacting, empirically supported procedures contributed to the field's transition toward an examination of the intricate interactions between biological, social, and psychological elements that shape criminal behavior. The multifaceted, sophisticated research that we rely on today was made possible by this methodology.

 

LEGACY AND IMPACT

Lombroso's work opened the door for a wide range of scientific studies into criminal behavior, including research into genetics, psychology, and sociology. His approach to studying crime scientifically rather than through purely philosophical or legalistic frameworks was a significant milestone. While modern criminology has moved beyond some of Lombroso's specific ideas, his pioneering spirit in applying empirical research to the study of crime remains a cornerstone of the field.

In summary, Cesare Lombroso's contributions to criminology marked a significant turning point in how we understand crime. His focus on scientific methods and empirical research has had a lasting impact, shaping the field and influencing how we approach criminal justice today.

 

Citation: Lombroso, C. (1876). L'Uomo Delinquente (The Criminal Man). Turin: Fratelli Bocca.

Explore more about the evolution of criminology and how historical figures like Lombroso have shaped our understanding of crime in the modern world.


Location: Philippines

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