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Emile Durkheim Research Paper

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The concepts of control theories originated from the work of Emile Durkheim (1895-1982) who believed that the societal structure dictates its members’ behavior. He followed that an individual’s behavior is determined by the greater social system and that social order is achieved through common societal values. In regards to deviance, Durkheim viewed it as a normal part of society arguing that “crime is present not only in the majority of societies of one particular species but in all societies of all types. There is no society that is not confronted with the problem of criminality” (p. 65). Durkheim believed that small, close knit communities are able to better regulate behavior and that collective activity gives purpose and meaning in life.

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