What school of criminology emerged in the 1800s emphasizing scientific answers and denying free will?

The correct answer is Positivist, as this school of criminology emerged during the 1800s and is characterized by its emphasis on scientific methods and empirical evidence to understand criminal behavior. Positivist criminologists sought to apply the scientific approach to the study of crime, focusing on observable phenomena rather than philosophical reasoning. They denied the notion of free will, asserting that criminal behavior is determined by factors such as biology, psychology, and social environment, rather than individual choice.

This approach marked a significant shift from previous schools of thought, especially the Classical school, which emphasized rationalism and free will as the basis for criminal behavior. The Positivist perspective laid the groundwork for modern criminological research methods and theories, including biological and psychological explanations for criminality, which continue to influence the field today.