Mertons functionalist perspective and anomie
- Created by: Jessveasey
- Created on: 09-03-20 10:12
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- Mertons functionalist perspective and anomie
- peoples aspirations and goals largely determined by the values of their culture.
- an example of this would be the American dream in USA. the idea that anyone who works hard can become successful and rich regardless of their background.
- some people accept the goal of achieving economic success but lack opportunities to succeed through socially acceptable routines.
- for example most working class people have limited opportunities to find high flying jobs with huge salaries
- people may experience between the goals they have been socialised to drive for and the means of achieving them.
- a conditions called anomie develops ( the breakdown of norms). the norms regulate behaviour breakdown and people turn to whatever means work for them to achieve material success.
- juvenile delinquency such as vandalism is not motivated by the goal of making money
- it is not clear why some individuals faced with anomie break the rules, while others 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 for them
- peoples aspirations and goals largely determined by the values of their culture.
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