Chapter
The Pseudoscience of Phrenology and Criminal Anthropology
09:01 - 13:55 (04:53)
Phrenology, a belief system that was developed in the 1700s, believed that the shape and size of the human head indicated a person's character and intelligence. This theory extended into the field of criminal anthropology and aimed to cure criminal tendencies by strengthening good brain organs and starving out the bad.
Clips
The theory of phrenology, developed by German doctor Franz Josef Gall, posited that the brain had different organs or faculties.
09:01 - 10:50 (01:48)
Summary
The theory of phrenology, developed by German doctor Franz Josef Gall, posited that the brain had different organs or faculties. The idea was that if one of these "organs" was used a lot, it would physically alter the shape of the skull.
ChapterThe Pseudoscience of Phrenology and Criminal Anthropology
EpisodeAUDIO EXTRA: Bizarre Crime History
PodcastCrime Junkie
Phrenology is an outdated and debunked belief system that states that personality traits can be determined by the shape of one's skull.
10:50 - 12:45 (01:54)
Summary
Phrenology is an outdated and debunked belief system that states that personality traits can be determined by the shape of one's skull. This practice, which was popular in the 19th century, blended elements of physiognomy and was used to diagnose "criminal tendencies" in individuals.
ChapterThe Pseudoscience of Phrenology and Criminal Anthropology
EpisodeAUDIO EXTRA: Bizarre Crime History
PodcastCrime Junkie
Lombroso, an Italian criminologist, believed that some people were just born criminals, based solely on their appearance.
12:45 - 13:55 (01:09)
Summary
Lombroso, an Italian criminologist, believed that some people were just born criminals, based solely on their appearance. His theories were used to support prejudicial opinions and even law enforcement consulted him, leading to wrongful accusations and convictions.