There are usually serious consequences when a politician is caught cheating on his spouse.In some cases,the politician is forced to resign from his office when his constituents loudly express their unhappiness with such behavior.According to Émile Durkheim,what function does this reaction serve?
A) It helps to deter politicians from cheating in the future.
B) It helps to clarify moral boundaries and reinforce the idea that marital infidelity is wrong.
C) The public outcry helps rehabilitate the offender so he won't cheat in the future.
D) It helps protect the family members of the politician from scrutiny and media coverage.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Émile Durkheim's theory of functionalism suggests that social norms and moral boundaries serve a function in maintaining social order and stability. The public outcry in response to a politician's infidelity helps to clarify moral boundaries and reinforce the idea that such behavior is socially unacceptable. This helps to maintain social order and stability by discouraging future instances of infidelity among politicians, who are expected to uphold high moral standards.

There Are Usually Serious Consequences When a Politician Is Caught