Robert K. Merton adapted Emile Durkheim's theory of anomie to devise his own anomie explanation of deviance. There are major differences between the two theories. Which of the following is one of them? In:
A) Merton's theory, deviance is caused by norms that are too strong; in Durkheim's theory, deviance is caused by norms that are too weak.
B) both Durkheim's and Merton's theories, deviance is caused by norms that are too strong; the difference lies elsewhere.
C) Durkheim's theory, deviance is caused by norms that are too strong; in Merton's theory, deviance is caused by norms that are too weak.
D) both Durkheim's and Merton's theories, deviance is caused by norms that are too weak; the difference lies elsewhere.
E) none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Merton's theory posits that deviance occurs when societal norms are too strong and create pressure that leads individuals to engage in deviant behavior to achieve societal goals, whereas Durkheim's theory suggests that deviance results from a breakdown of societal norms, leading to a state of normlessness or anomie.

Robert K Merton Adapted Emile Durkheim's Theory of Anomie to Devise