Merton: Causes of Crime - Crime and Deviance (Functionalist)

Question 1

What did Merton argue?

Answer 1

• People’s aspirations and goals are largely determined by the values of their culture. For example, in the USA people are socialised to believe in the American Dream.
• Some people accept the goal of achieving economic success but lack the opportunities to succeed through socially acceptable routes. For example, most working-class people have limited opportunities to find high-flying jobs with huge salaries.
• People may experience a strain between the goals they have been socialised to strive for and the means of achieving them. In this situation, a condition of anomie (the breakdown of norms) develops. The norms that regulate behaviour break down and people turn to whatever means necessary to achieve the goals that they are striving for. When anomie develops, high rates of crime and delinquency are likely.

Question 2

What are some criticisms of Merton?

Answer 2

• Juvenile delinquency such as vandalism is not motivated by the goal of making money.
• It it not clear why some individuals faced with anomie break the rules, while other conform.
• Many sociologists argue that society is based on conflict between powerful and subordinate groups rather than on consensus or shared values and goals.
• Marxists argue that Merton fails to consider power relations in society, or who makes the laws and benefits from them.