Deviance and Social Control

Authors: Helen Marshall, Kathy Douglas and Desmond McDonnell

Publisher: Oxford University Press Melbourne, 2007

This text examines the bizarre and the everyday behaviours that some sociologists have labelled deviance. It outlines the history of sociological thought on deviance and engages with the debate about the death of deviance. The authors argue it is more useful to talk about rules, rule makers and rule breakers than deviance and relate these ideas to our professional lives where the idea of deviance continues to be important. This is a new approach to the concept and to teaching about it. Key issues examined includes drugs, bodies, sexuality, sanity and madness, law justice and the prison system, terrorism and state crime. By using topical examples of deviance the authors ensure that students will engage with the theoretical concepts. Case studies and student exercises enable students to reflect further on their understandings.