Theories of Deviance

Deviance is a kind of behavior that infracts accepted social norms. Among different theories of deviance conflict theory refers to a particular sociological problems. It focuses on political, social, material inequality that exists in a social group. This theory preoccupies to historically dominant ideologies, for instance to class conflict that always existed. Practically conflict theory serves for studying of a group, organization, society functions in a way when everybody work and contend with the rest in order to get more benefits. Without fail such situations lead to changes in society.

The most appropriate example for this theory is the way people act in the situations of inequality. Such a particular group of people will struggle for changing situation for better. They will try to alter a social structure that leaded to inappropriate circumstances which they are willing to change. For instance, the Occupy Wall Street movement, that took place in autumn in New York. The problem that stated there included unjust inequality in distributing of wealth. Moreover, the participants stated against political corruption, greed and perceived undue influence of corporations on government.

The other one is a state theory. In works of Jeremy Bentham and Cesare Beccaria is presumed a utilitarian point of view on society together with a social contract theory of the state. It is considered that a state plays a great role in increasing productivity. Furthermore, it is a state that can decrease harmful activities which harm society. As long as society consists of individuals the last can commit a deviant acts.

In order to prevent deviants from their further activities the theory suggests punishments. In conclusion all the deviants lose impetus for making harm to society in future. It is important to remember that actions of individuals make an effect on a state, it prosperity and development to a certain extend.