As the act of criminality is a worldwide phenomenon, therefore there must be an explanation as to its reason; Some schools of thought strive to explain this through genetics, while others take a more socially influenced approach. Although at the time the microcriminological theories of Lombroso and Sheldon may have seemed credible, modern research has attempted to refute such notions. In an epidemiological context, criminal action is seen by some as a positive contribution to society, as noted by Durkheim (Kirby et al, 2000), even though excess crime leads to social instability, or anomia. Contrary to Durkheim's beliefs, a Marxist perspective would view the simple notion of capitalism as criminal; thus considering that the vast majority of global society is in a constant state of anomie. However, much controversy remains over whether people are born or become criminals. This essay will discuss the arguments within this debate. Being “born” a criminal indicates genetic inheritance whereas if one is “made”; Environmental influences are a significant factor in creating criminal behavior. Despite the many controversies surrounding the notion of hereditary criminal tendencies, there is ample evidence to support these theories. Although Lombroso was able to employ his theoretical atavisms in an attempt to provide a biologically deterministic method of crime reduction or prevention, they ultimately led to an abandonment of the seriousness of such a notion. However, as myopic as Lombroso's theories that criminality is a hereditary trait appear (Mannheim, 1965), research has shown that shared physical characteristics are commonplace in explaining the genetic criminal behavior argument. Although Lombroso presented... middle of document ...... the fact, he does not claim that people are born destined to commit criminal offenses, but rather suggests an inherent predisposition to such behaviors, which may be influenced by society. factors. Favoring a genetically predisposed and socially influenced explanation, there are a multitude of considerations to explain criminal behavior; for example, a non-aggressive, psychologically healthy person may be influenced by peer pressure to use drugs recreationally, because "psychoactive drug abuse usually results from a combination of low self-esteem , peer pressure, inadequate coping skills, and curiosity. (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2005) therefore suggest that mild recreational drug abuse can give rise to addiction due to a multitude of social influences, which invariably leads to more crime in order to financially support an addiction..