Final answer:
Modern theorists recognize genetics may influence behavior, but many emphasize environmental factors, particularly through Social Disorganization Theory, which relates crime rates to socioeconomic conditions rather than biological determinism alone.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modern theorists consider the influence of biology on crime through various perspectives. One such view is sociobiology, which posits that behaviors, potentially including criminal tendencies, may be explained in part by genetic factors and natural selection. This approach is closely associated with the idea of biological determinism, which suggests that genes can play a significant role in shaping behaviors. The controversy surrounding sociobiology often centers on the relative influence of genetics ('nature') versus environmental factors ('nurture') on human behavior.
However, in the realm of criminology, theories like Social Disorganization Theory emphasize the importance of environmental factors such as socioeconomic and cultural influences. Crime rates, according to this theory, are more likely to correlate with neighborhood conditions such as poverty, residential instability, and family disruption. This focus on social conditions moves away from biological determinism and more towards an understanding of crime as a consequence of social and economic inequalities embedded within the environment.
In essence, while there is recognition of biological components, modern theories tend to give significant weight to the social and economic contexts in which individuals are embedded, acknowledging the complex interplay of nature and nurture in influencing criminal behavior.