The main differences between classical and positivist schools of criminology lie in their foundational principles, methodologies, and views on crime causation and criminal behavior.

Key Insights

• Foundational Principles:

  • Classical Criminology: Rooted in the Enlightenment, it emphasizes free will, rationality, and the idea that individuals choose to commit crimes based on a cost-benefit analysis. Key figures include Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham
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  • Positivist Criminology: Emerged in the late 19th century, focusing on determinism and the idea that criminal behavior is caused by factors beyond the individual's control, such as biological, psychological, and social influences. Cesare Lombroso is a notable figure
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• Methodologies:

  • Classical Criminology: Utilizes a more philosophical and normative approach, advocating for legal reforms and the establishment of a justice system that deters crime through proportionate punishment
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  • Positivist Criminology: Employs scientific methods to study the causes of crime, aiming to identify and mitigate these causes through rehabilitation and social reforms
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• Views on Crime Causation and Criminal Behavior:

  • Classical Criminology: Views crime as a result of individual choice and rational calculation. It assumes that people have the free will to choose between right and wrong and that punishment can deter criminal behavior
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  • Positivist Criminology: Considers crime to be caused by various external and internal factors, such as genetics, mental health, and social environment. It focuses on understanding these factors to prevent crime and rehabilitate offenders
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Conclusion

Classical criminology emphasizes free will and rational choice, advocating for deterrence through proportionate punishment, while positivist criminology focuses on determinism and the scientific study of crime causation, aiming for rehabilitation and social reform.