Deviant Behavior.

Catalog description

This course critically examines various sociological approaches to the study of deviant behavior. Special attention is paid to the problem of defining deviance in a useful manner for sociological study—and not just as officially illegal behavior. Most forms of deviance, ranging from major infractions of societal norms (such as rape or child abuse) to less extreme, but still significant deviant acts (such as marijuana smoking or illegal file sharing) is discussed. In addition, the political and economic elite is examined with respect to their ability to define deviance, their use of punishment as social control, and the ways they are able to “hide” crime to their own advantage. American data is supplemented by cross-cultural and comparative materials. ( DVSY , GE1A , GESO )