Final answer:
Sociological theories of crime within the Positivist school examine social causes and implications of crime, including factors such as social disorganization and inequality. These theories suggest that crime is influenced by social factors, rather than solely individual characteristics or free will.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sociological theories of crime, specifically within the Positivist school of criminology, aim to explain the causes of crime from a sociological perspective. The theories suggest that crime is not solely a result of personal characteristics or free will, but rather influenced by social factors such as poverty, inequality, and social disorganization. One prominent theory within this school is the Social Disorganization Theory, which suggests that crime is more common in neighborhoods with certain demographic and economic profiles.
Another important sociological theory of crime is the conflict theory, which posits that crime is caused by social and economic inequalities. Conflict theorists argue that those in power use their influence to maintain and expand their positions, leading to social unrest and deviance. Additionally, symbolic interactionism focuses on the socially constructed nature of deviance, highlighting how labeling and interaction with others shape individuals' perceptions of deviant behavior.
In summary, sociological theories of crime within the Positivist school explore the social causes and implications of crime, proposing that factors such as social disorganization and inequality play a significant role in shaping criminal behavior.