Week 4 Project

Page 1 of 1 Introduction to Sociology

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W4L2 Both conformity and deviants are shaped by society. This is evident in three ways; first, deviants exist only in relation to cultural norms. If a behavior is not a norm, then it is considered deviant. For example, if a person colors her hair blue, then she is considered deviant by everyone else who follows the norm of non-blue hair. Second, people become deviant as others define them that way. If the same person colors her hair blue, but no one sees her, then she is not deviant because she has not been labeled deviant. To be deviant, you must be labeled as such. Finally, both norms and the way people define situations involve social power. Generally speaking, those in power are the ones who define the norms. For example, if the popular group in a high school colors their hair blue they likely will redefine the norm of coloring hair for the school. Contrary to general belief deviants plays a very important role in our society. One of the founders of sociology Émile Durkheim asserted that Deviants is an integral part of all societies and serves four major functions, these include affirming cultural values and norms, clarifying moral boundaries, promoting social unity, encouraging social change.