SOC 1500 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Scientific Method, Y Chromosome, Reality Principle

• School: University of Guelph
• Department: Sociology
• Course: SOC 1500
• Professor: Ryan Broll

Document Summary

Emphasis on the application of the scientific method to the study of human behaviour. Darwin(cid:1685)s on the origin of species (1859) - well known example of early positivist thinking that strongly influenced the development of criminological theorizing. Criminals are (cid:1684)biological throwbacks(cid:1685) - atavists: those who display primitive, ape-like characteristics are biologically predisposed to crime. Focused on body types. mesomorphs are most likely to engage in criminal activity. Possession of an extra y chromosome believed to be cause of uncontrollable aggressiveness in (cid:1688)super males(cid:1689) Modern theories generally contend that criminals are made, not born: contact with biological theories. Human psyche consist of: id: primal urges, unconscious biological drives, ego: reality principle, keeps id urges in check, superego: social conscience/moral code. Criminal behaviour results from unresolved psychological conflicts. Bandura(cid:1685)s (1973) bobo doll experiment: observing aggressive acts leads to aggression. Social learning theory: aggressive behaviour is learned. Consumption of violent media (movies, video games, music, etc. ) leads to increased aggression and violence.