physio lombrosso Flashcards
What is a physiological theory?
Criminality caused by the physical traits of individuals
Who is lombrosso?
He was an Italian doctor in the 1870s who put forward the first physiological theory of criminality
How did lombrosso carry out this research?
He examined the skulls of deceased criminals and the facial features of current prisoners
What did lombrosso say about “atavistic”?
He said that criminals were atavistic meaning they weren’t as evolved as others, their facial features were different
What were some facial features that criminals had?
-enormous jaw
-large eye sockets
-high cheekbones
-prominent eyebrow arch
-exceptionally long arms
What were some facial features specific to thieves?
-small wandering eyes
-flat noses
-flexible hands and fingers
What were some facial features key to murderers?
-pointy noses
Strength: why was his theory scientific and objective?
Because he was the first person to put forward a physiological theory and it allowed for further research and studying to be done
Strength: why did his theory have real life application? How was it supported by evidence?
Butcher and Taylor in 2007 suggested that less attractive individuals are actually more likely to be criminals in the future. This can cue application for further studies
Weakness: why does his research lack reliability and consistency?
Since the 1870s many researchers have failed to show a link between criminality and facial features, no supporting evidence has been found, it’s not replicable.
Weakness: why is his theory not accurate or generalisable?
Not everyone with atavistic features will be a criminal, and not all criminals have atavistic features. Therefore it can’t be generalised to everyone as it’s not fully accurate and authentic
