Lombroso's Theory of Criminal Anthropology

Cesare Lombroso developed a theory of criminal anthropology based on Charles Darwin's work. The Lombroso theory proposed that criminals were a separate species with distinct physical features indicating atavism or primitive traits.

Lombroso conducted a study examining the facial and cranial features of over 4,000 criminals. He concluded that 40% of criminal acts could be attributed to atavistic characteristics. The Lombroso theory features included physical traits like a flattened nose, large jaw, tattoos, large ears, and a sloped forehead.

Example: According to Lombroso, a murderer might have curly hair and bloodshot eyes, while a sex offender could have thick lips and protruding ears.

Highlight: A recent Chinese study used AI software to identify criminals based on physical features, with only a 6% error rate.

Lombroso also described other aspects of criminality, such as the use of criminal slang and insensitivity to pain. He believed that female criminals, particularly prostitutes, had distinct physical characteristics as well.

Vocabulary: Atavism - The reappearance of primitive traits in modern organisms.

Sheldon's Somatotypes Theory

William Sheldon proposed a theory linking body types (somatotypes) to personality traits and criminal behavior. After studying 4,000 men, Sheldon identified three main somatotypes:

1. Ectomorphic: Lean, poorly muscled individuals with introverted and sensitive personalities.
2. Endomorphic: Plump, fat individuals with sociable and relaxed personalities.
3. Mesomorphic: Muscular individuals with assertive and dominant personalities.

Definition: Somatotype - A body type classification system based on the relative contribution of three extreme body types.

Sheldon conducted a correlation study of 200 boys and found that mesomorphic boys were disproportionately prone to delinquency. He concluded that a tough body is necessary for survival on the streets and that mesomorphs are more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior.

Highlight: The somatotype theory in criminology suggests that physical build may influence criminal tendencies, with mesomorphic individuals being more prone to delinquent behavior.