Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Geborener Verbrecher / Español: Criminal Nato / Português: Criminoso Nato / Français: Criminel-Né / Italiano: Criminale Nato /

Born criminal is a term which is according to Lombroso, a person born with features resembling an earlier, more primitive form of human life, destined to become a criminal.

Born criminals are described as individuals who are born with a genetic predilection toward criminality.

The concept of "born criminal" is a discredited idea in psychology that suggests that some individuals are inherently predisposed to criminal behavior due to their biological makeup. This theory was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was used to justify eugenics programs, which aimed to prevent the reproduction of individuals deemed "unfit" due to their perceived genetic predisposition to criminal behavior.

The idea of the "born criminal" has been debunked by modern research, which suggests that criminal behavior is the result of a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. While there may be genetic factors that predispose some individuals to criminal behavior, these factors are often influenced by environmental factors, such as poverty, social deprivation, and exposure to violence.

Here are some examples of how the concept of the "born criminal" has been used historically:

1. Lombroso's Theory: Italian criminologist Cesare Lombroso was a prominent proponent of the "born criminal" theory. He argued that criminal behavior was the result of atavistic characteristics, or biological throwbacks to earlier stages of human evolution.

2. Sterilization Programs: In the early 20th century, many countries, including the United States, implemented eugenics programs aimed at preventing the reproduction of individuals deemed "unfit" due to their perceived genetic predisposition to criminal behavior.

3. Racial Stereotyping: The concept of the "born criminal" has often been used to justify racial stereotyping and discrimination. For example, in the United States, the idea of the "superpredator" was used in the 1990s to describe young black men who were seen as inherently predisposed to violent criminal behavior.

In conclusion, the concept of the "born criminal" is no longer considered a valid explanation for criminal behavior in modern psychology. Instead, contemporary research suggests that criminal behavior is the result of a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors, and that addressing social and environmental factors is crucial for reducing criminal behavior.

While the idea of the "born criminal" has been thoroughly debunked by modern research, its legacy still lingers in society today. Despite the overwhelming evidence that criminal behavior is not solely determined by genetics, there are still individuals who cling to the idea that some people are inherently predisposed to criminality. This has resulted in a number of harmful policies and practices that perpetuate discrimination and inequality.

One example of this is the way in which the criminal justice system often treats individuals who come from disadvantaged backgrounds or who have a history of criminal behavior. Rather than focusing on addressing the underlying social and environmental factors that may contribute to criminal behavior, these individuals are often stigmatized and punished for their perceived innate criminal tendencies.

Another example of the lingering influence of the "born criminal" concept can be seen in the way in which certain groups are stereotyped and discriminated against based on their perceived genetic predisposition to criminal behavior. For example, the idea of the "superpredator" was used in the 1990s to describe young black men who were seen as inherently violent and dangerous. This stereotype not only perpetuated harmful racial biases, but also resulted in policies such as mandatory minimum sentences and harsher punishments for juvenile offenders.

It is important to recognize that criminal behavior is a complex and multifaceted issue that cannot be reduced to simple genetic explanations. While genetics may play a role in predisposing some individuals to certain behaviors, it is only one of many factors that contribute to criminal behavior. To truly address the issue of criminal behavior, we must focus on addressing the underlying social and environmental factors that contribute to it, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and opportunities.

In conclusion, the concept of the "born criminal" has been thoroughly discredited by modern research, but its legacy still lingers in society today. To move forward and create a more just and equitable society, we must work to dismantle harmful stereotypes and address the root causes of criminal behavior. This will require a concerted effort from individuals, communities, and governments at all levels.

Other /More definition:
Born criminal refer to individuals who are born with a genetic predilection toward criminality.