Northern Essex Community College
Module 4: Biological Theories, Ethics, and Social Policy
Review all module materials and expectations carefully before beginning your work.
Module Overview
This module examines early and contemporary biological theories of crime and their influence on criminal justice and social policy. The discussion activity focuses on the American eugenics movement as a cautionary example of how biological explanations of crime were used to justify harmful policies and practices. The writing assignment builds on this foundation by analyzing how biological theories continue to shape policy initiatives and how these theories align with competing perspectives on crime causation.
As you complete this module, focus on evaluating the ethical and practical implications of biological explanations for criminal behavior. Strong responses will connect theory to policy outcomes, assess how assumptions about crime causation influence intervention strategies, and consider how historical misapplications of biological theories inform modern criminal justice decision making.
Important: Carefully review all module materials, instructions, and grading expectations before beginning any activity.
Student Learning Outcomes
- SLO3: Identify several early biological theories, the issues related to these theories and compare them to more recent/current biological theories
- SLO10: Discuss the major crime typologies
What You Will Do
- Complete assigned readings or instructional materials.
- Participate in discussions or applied learning activities.
- Complete written, practical, creative, or problem-based assignments.
- Review instructor feedback and module expectations.
- Review all materials carefully before beginning assignments.
- Follow assignment instructions and grading rubrics closely.
- Proofread all submissions before posting or uploading.
- Ask questions early if anything is unclear.
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