6. Overall, what is Mertons theory?

We all follow a set of norms, those who do not agree to these, deviate away from it and creates crime.
The formation of subcultures and the poor relationship between us and them is what creates crime.
Crime is evidence for a poor fit between socially accepted goals and the socially acceptable means of achieving these goals.
It is the ruling class power and exploitation of the working class that creates anger and deviance.

7. In Durkheims theory, what does re-affirming the boundaries mean?

Some crime can act as a pressure release for workers.
When someone breaks the law, the resulting court sentence and publicity re-affirms the existing values.
Where an entire community comes together after a horrific crime and creates a sense of belonging, strengthening the community.
When someone who is breaking the law is treated with sympathy at the court, the public outcry to this would symbolise changing values.