Functionalist theory originates in the work of the French sociologist David Émile Durkheim (15 April 1858–15 November 1917). The main characteristic of functionalist theories is that social phenomena such as crime and deviance are viewed as parts of an interlocking system rather than products of individual circumstances. Social institutions are seen as necessary to the functioning of society and act as parts of an interlocking organism shaped to maintain social order and stability.
What is defined as "crime" is is socially determined. All societies must define what is legitimate behavior and what behavior must be regulated or eliminated in order for the society for function. The specifics of which behaviors are considered crimes vary with the needs of the particular society at the particular moment. For example, dueling would have been legal in the Renaissance, but killing someone in a duel would be illegal now. Likewise, bans of opioids and other recreational drugs are relatively...
(The entire section contains 3 answers and 874 words.)
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial to unlock this answer and thousands more. Enjoy eNotes ad-free and cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.