Published in 1902, this isn't a novel, but a fascinating piece of social science from Portugal. The author, Manuel Ferreira-Deusdado, was a doctor and a politician, and he brings both perspectives to a pressing question of his era: what really causes crime?

The Story

There's no plot in the traditional sense. Instead, Ferreira-Deusdado builds a case. He looks at the criminals and social conditions of his time and presents a clear argument. He believes that many people turn to crime because they lack proper education and moral guidance. The book is his effort to connect the dots between poverty, ignorance, and lawbreaking, suggesting that improving schools and ethical teaching could prevent crime before it happens.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was hearing a voice from over 120 years ago wrestling with issues that still fill our news feeds. His core idea—that investing in people's minds is the best crime prevention—feels incredibly modern. It's a hopeful argument, suggesting society has the power to change outcomes. Reading his reasoning, you get a vivid snapshot of what worried thinkers in early 20th-century Europe and how they proposed to fix it.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers curious about the history of ideas, social policy, or criminal justice. If you enjoy books that make you think about the 'why' behind big social problems, this is a compelling glimpse into a past debate that never really ended. It's a short, dense read, but it offers a powerful reminder that some solutions are timeless.