Which of the following statements regarding positivism is true?

Positivism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes the use of empirical data and scientific methods as the foundation for knowledge and understanding. It asserts that knowledge should be derived from observable phenomena rather than speculation or subjective interpretations. In the context of criminology, positivism seeks to explain criminal behavior through the study of measurable factors such as biological, psychological, and social influences.

This reliance on data and rigorous scientific methodologies is what distinguishes positivist theories from others that may prioritize free will, moral reasoning, or subjective experience. By focusing on objective data, positivist criminologists aim to produce reliable conclusions about crime and deviance, moving beyond mere opinion or conjecture. Thus, the emphasis on data and scientific methods being essential to its approach aligns perfectly with the foundational principles of positivism.