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In relation to mertons strain theory, consider whether crime is the product of blocked opportunities.
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IN RELATION TO MERTONS STRAIN THEORY, CONSIDER WHETHER CRIME IS THE PRODUCT OF BLOCKED OPPORTUNITIES. Created by Student: 266648 The basis of Merton's Strain Theory lies with Emile Durkheim and his theory of anomie in so far as 'anomie' is translated as 'deregulation' or 'normlessness'. Durkheim developed the concept of anomie in his book, Suicide, published in 1897 to refer to the lack of social regulation in modern society as one condition that promotes higher rates of suicide. He believed that individuals possessed an unlimited appetite of aspirations and it was up to society to regulate such an appetite. According to Durkheim, the appetites were regulated by the 'collective conscience' of society; meaning people were bound together by their common morals and beliefs. However, if this mechanism failed or was significantly weakened, anomie would occur. An anomic state would unleash in people limitless appetites that could result in a variety of...
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