Home > Sociology MCQ Questions and Answers > Which thinker made a distinction between 'normal' and 'pathological' functions in social theory?
Which thinker made a distinction between 'normal' and 'pathological' functions in social theory?
A
A. R. Radcliffe-Brown
B
Talcott Parsons
C
Émile Durkheim
D
Max Weber
Correct Answer:
C
Émile Durkheim
- Émile Durkheim introduced the distinction between normal and pathological social phenomena.
- Normal functions are those that are typical, widespread, and contribute to social stability.
- Pathological functions refer to abnormal conditions that disrupt social order.
- He argued that even phenomena like crime can be normal if they exist in all societies.
- However, excessive crime becomes pathological when it threatens social cohesion.
- This distinction was part of his broader functionalist approach.
- Helped sociologists understand society using scientific and objective criteria.
- Emphasized studying social facts as “things” to identify normal vs abnormal patterns.
- Important for exams as it clarifies how societies maintain balance and order.