Lombroso's Theory of Atavism

Lombroso's Theory of Atavism suggests that some criminals are biological "throwbacks" to earlier humans, displaying physical features and traits reminiscent of primitive ancestors. He believed these individuals had inherited physical characteristics, such as prominent jaws or large jaws, that marked them as less evolved. According to Lombroso, these atavistic traits made certain individuals more prone to criminal behavior, as their biological makeup influenced their tendencies. While influential historically, this theory is now considered outdated and overly simplistic, as modern science recognizes that crime results from complex social, environmental, and psychological factors rather than just biology.