Emile Durkheim stated several reasons why deviance was actually functional for society. Which of the following was not one of them? (A) One deviant act leads to another, which increases social solidarity. B) Deviance promotes social unity. C) Deviance clarifies moral boundaries and affirms norms. (D) Deviance promotes social change.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is (A) One deviant act leads to another, which increases social solidarity.
Explanation:
Emile Durkheim, a founding figure in sociology, argued that deviance plays an important and functional role in society. Although deviant behavior may seem harmful on the surface, Durkheim believed it contributes to the stability and continuity of social life in several specific ways:
1. Deviance clarifies moral boundaries and affirms norms (Option C):
When someone breaks societal rules, it brings attention to the boundaries of acceptable behavior. By reacting to deviance, society reinforces the shared understanding of right and wrong, helping to maintain order.
2. Deviance promotes social unity (Option B):
When a community comes together to denounce deviant behavior, it creates a sense of unity among its members. Collective disapproval strengthens social bonds and reminds people of their shared values.
3. Deviance promotes social change (Option D):
Challenging norms through deviant acts can lead to necessary social reforms. For example, acts of civil disobedience, though considered deviant at the time, have historically led to progress in areas such as civil rights and equality.
What Durkheim did not say:
Option A: “One deviant act leads to another, which increases social solidarity” is incorrect and does not reflect Durkheim’s perspective. Durkheim never suggested that deviance increases social solidarity by encouraging more deviance. Instead, he emphasized that the reaction to deviance, not the deviant acts themselves, strengthens social bonds. Repeated deviant acts typically harm social cohesion, especially if left unchecked.
In summary, Durkheim viewed deviance as a natural part of society with specific functions such as clarifying norms, promoting unity, and encouraging change, but he did not claim that deviance itself multiplies and increases solidarity.
