Functionalism Flashcards
Define anomie
a state of normlessness, disorder, or confusion in a society
How do functionalists view crime?
Inevitable and universal, good for society
Why does modern society cause crime?
social and cultural diversity which weakens the shared culture
Improper socialisation
What is boundary maintenance?
crime produces a reaction from society, making them unite
How can boundary maintenance be seen in society
Punishment of the criminals - discourages others
What is social solidarity?
how individuals feel connected and united with one another and to the society as whole
Boundary maintenance real examples
- 2011 UK riots
- James Bulger murder
Boundary maintenance A03
ignores how crime may affect individuals
What is Adaptation and Change?
Durkheim - All change starts with an act of defiance - individuals with new ideas, and ways of living must not be completely turned away by society
Adaptation and change real examples
- Suffragettes movement led to The Equal Pay Act
- Marting Luther King was arrested whilst peaceful protesting - civil rights movement
Adaptation and Change A03
Durkheim offers no way of knowing how much the right amount of crime is
What is Safety Valve?
Davis - crime can release men’s sexual frustrations - can be positive and prevent Domestic Violence
Safety Valve real examples
Prostitution - Red Light District in Amsterdam
Safety Valve A03
Radical feminists - objectification of women. The law is in men’s favour.
What is Warning Light?
Cohen - deviance indicates when a system is malfunctioning
Warning Light real examples
High truancy rates in schools - problem with the education system - led to fines for absences
Warning Light A03
Marxists - doesn’t consider the possibility of a powerful group imposing its values on the rest of society
What are the four reasons functionalists believe crime is good for society?
Boundary Maintenance
Adaptation and Change
Safety Valve
Warning Light
