Jan 1, 2010

Crime and Criminals | Crime Gene Theories Are Flawed

Theories advocating a connection between genetics and crime are misguided, argues Jeff Milder in the following viewpoint. “Crime” is a cultural concept, not a biological entity, he contends, and therefore there is no gene responsible for creating crime. Furthermore, Milder maintains, environment plays an important role in determining whether or not a person will become a criminal. Milder is a freelance writer.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What was the consensus of the Maryland conference on genetics and criminal behavior, in the author’s...