What does atavism imply about individuals who commit crimes?

Atavism, a concept rooted in early biological theories of crime, suggests that individuals who commit crimes exhibit physical and psychological traits reminiscent of earlier stages of human evolution. This idea proposes that some criminals may embody characteristics typical of prehistoric or less evolved humans, such as certain facial features or behaviors perceived as primitive or aggressive.

The assertion that these individuals show traits of earlier human development resonates with the original theories put forth by figures like Cesare Lombroso, who posited that criminals are "born criminals" and can be identified by physical features. This perspective emphasizes the connection between physical anthropology and criminal behavior during the 19th century, framing criminality as an inherent biological throwback.