Sociological Theoreis On Crim- Functionalism Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is the root cause of crime according to Merton’s Strain Theory?
The root cause of crime is an unequal structure in society.
What are the criticisms of Merton’s strain typologies?
Merton’s typologies do not explain why people fall into their category, and it does not account for non-financially motivated crimes or cultural factors.
What is the American Dream in the context of Merton’s theory?
The American Dream represents money, success, and wealth, which can lead to blaming the working class.
What are subcultures in relation to blocked opportunities?
Subcultures provide alternative norms and values for those who face blocked opportunities.
What is the significance of deviance in Merton’s theory?
Deviance results from group failure and is explained in the context of a particular group’s norms.
What is the role of meritocracy in society according to Merton?
Meritocracy leads individuals to feel worthless if they cannot achieve cultural goals.
What are the different responses to strain according to Merton?
Responses include conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.
What is innovation in the context of deviance?
Innovation involves using deviant means, such as crime, to achieve success.
What is retreatism?
Retreatism is when individuals drop out of society and reject mainstream values.
What are conflict subcultures?
Conflict subcultures arise when criminal opportunities are limited to gangs.
What is rebellion in Merton’s theory?
Rebellion involves rejecting mainstream values and creating new means and goals.
What is crime?
Legal definition - behavior against laws.
What is deviance?
Cultural definitions - behavior that goes against societal norms.
Who are key theorists in functionalism related to crime?
Durkheim, Merton, Cohen, Cloward & Ohlin.
What is the macro perspective on crime?
Crime can contribute to social order and is enforced by formal social control.
What are the components of a crime?
Actus reus + Mens rea.
What is Durkheim’s view on crime?
Crime is inevitable and can prevent anomie.
What are the functions of crime according to Durkheim?
Crime can be healthy for society, identifying problems and reaffirming shared values.
What happens when crime levels are too low?
Too little crime is undesirable as it can lead to stagnation in society.
What is crime as a safety valve?
Some crimes need to occur to reduce wider conflict in society.
What does crime signal in society?
When there is too much crime, it signals that the laws must change.
What is structuralism’s view on crime?
Crime is caused by society, not individual faults.
What is the impact of powerful groups on laws?
Powerful groups can influence law-making, leading to a lack of consensus.
Who is Dave Fuller?
Described as ‘vile, sick, twisted’ in an article about his crimes.
