Which statement is most likely to be made by a positivist criminologist?

The statement that crime should be examined using the scientific method is consistent with the positivist criminological perspective, which emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence and scientific inquiry in understanding crime and criminal behavior. Positivist criminologists seek to identify the underlying causes of criminal behavior through systematic observation, experimentation, and analysis. This approach is rooted in the belief that human behavior, including criminal acts, can be studied in a manner similar to the natural sciences, relying on objective data and quantifiable results to draw conclusions.

In contrast to this viewpoint, other statements reflect different theoretical orientations. For instance, the idea that crime is merely a social construct aligns more closely with social constructionist theories that focus on how societal reactions and definitions shape our understanding of crime. The notion that only certain classes commit crimes points towards conflict theories which emphasize the role of social class in shaping who commits crimes and why. Lastly, the assertion that criminal behavior is influenced entirely by environment suggests a deterministic view, which can be attributed to environmental or social theories, but may not encompass the full range of biological and psychological factors that positivists consider relevant. Overall, the positivist approach prioritizes the use of the scientific method to explore the complexities of crime.