The Nature Argument

The Nature Argument in Criminology

Psychological Predisposition:

• Some criminologists assert that a significant factor contributing to criminal behaviour is an individual's inherent nature. This perspective suggests that certain people are psychologically predisposed to commit criminal acts.

Evidence of Psychological Traits:

• Recent research indicates that individuals prone to criminal behaviour may exhibit specific psychological traits. Examples include a propensity to get angry easily or a lack of empathy and understanding of others' feelings, such as in the case of psychopaths.

Brain Function and Medication:

• Research delves into the functioning of the brain in individuals engaged in criminal activities. In response, some criminals have been prescribed medication, such as drugs, to control and manage their behaviour, highlighting the connection between brain function and criminal tendencies.

Criminological Theories on Nature:

Criminological theories aligned with the nature argument include:

Individual Trait Theory:

• Criminals are distinguished from non-criminals by various biological and psychological traits. These traits, such as a lack of empathy, are posited to interact with the social environment, leading to criminal behaviour.

Positivism:

• Positivist theories assert that crime is caused or determined by a combination of psychological and sociological factors, emphasising the influence of individual traits.

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The Nature Argument

Modern Studies

Limitations of the Nature Argument:

• While some criminologists support the nature argument, it is generally acknowledged that not all criminal behaviour can be solely explained by innate characteristics. The nature argument represents one perspective, and there are alternative explanations for criminal conduct, as encapsulated in the 'nurture' argument.

Interaction with Social Environment:

• The nature argument acknowledges the interaction between an individual's inherent traits and their social environment as contributing factors to criminal behaviour.

Nurture Argument:

• The nature argument stands in contrast to the 'nurture' argument, which proposes a different set of reasons to explain crime. The nurture perspective focuses on external factors, including social influences and upbringing, as key contributors to criminal behaviour.

In summary, the nature argument in criminology posits that some individuals are predisposed to commit crimes due to inherent psychological traits. While this perspective is supported by research on brain function and specific traits, it is not universally accepted, and criminologists recognise the importance of considering both nature and nurture in understanding criminal behaviour.