Durkheim (Sociological/Functionalist)

Question 1

What does Durkheim argue about crime within society?

Answer 1

He believes that each element within society serves a function. Crime exists because it serves a function (it provides jobs and sets boundaries).

Question 2

What does Durkheim say about collective sentiment?

Answer 2

If there is too little collective sentiment, groups like the EDL form their own morality. If there is too much crime, chaos and anomie happens, where society starts to break down. This is where our shared norms within society become weakened. However, if there is too little crime, society can’t move forward and it becomes too rigid.

Question 3

The 4 functions of crime:

Answer 3

1. Boundary maintenance -> crime produces a reaction which unites a community, society or group. An example of this is Shannan Matthews.
2. Social chance -> criminals acts pushing society forwards. An example of this is the suffragettes movement.
3. Safety valve -> crime has allowed the release of social/personal pressure. An example of this is illegal raves and drug taking (allows people a ‘release’).
4. Warning light -> criminal acts have indicated problems in society and triggered some form of change. An example of this is George Floyd.

Question 4

What is society based on?

Answer 4

Shared norms and values.

Question 5

Why does crime exist?

Answer 5

It serves a function.

Question 6

What happens when society agrees too much (too much collective statement)?

Answer 6

Society can’t move forward, so it stagnates and becomes too rigid.

Question 7

What happen when subcultures form and as a result there is too little collective statement?

Answer 7

Chaos and anomie, society breaks down whilst groups like the EDL form their own morality.

Question 8

Strength.

Answer 8

He was the first to recognise that crime may have a positive effect on society.

Question 9

Weakness.

Answer 9

He doesn’t tell us what exactly is the ‘right’ amount of crime.