Society based on value consensus (sharing a common culture) . Produces social solidarity . 2 key mechagnisms: socialisation and social control
inevitability of crime (Durkheim)
Don’t see crime negatively. too mooch crime is a threat but it is inevitable and universal. ‘Crime is normal an integral part of healthy societies. Not everyone is equally effective and own norms and values
anmoie
modern society tendncy toward normlessnes . rules and behaviour become weaker and less clear cut. Diversity means the shared culture collective consciousness is weakened
Boundary maintenance
crime produces a reaction fro society and creates a boundary of right and wrong . Explains function of punishment to reaffirm societies shared rules and to reinforce social solidarity. Cohen explained importance of role played by the media ‘ folk devil’
adaptation and change
all change starts with an act of deviance must be some scope for them to challenge and change existing norms and values. too much is threatening too little society is to controlling
warning sign
cohen: a warning signs that a institution is not functioning properly.
safety value
Davie: prostitution acts as a safety value for the release Of men’s sexual frustration without threatening nuclear family
channelling
Polska argues pronography saftey Chanel sexual desires away from alternate of adulatory
managing behaviour
Erinson argues that crime and devience preform positive function then it means society is organise.
creation of jobs
create jobs like police, lawyers
Criticism
Durkheim says a certain amount of crime is needed but how is a certain amount measured
criticism
look at how crime affects society as a whole not individual
criticism
functionalist explain the existence of crime in term of function just becuase crime strength society doesn’t explain why its there in first place