Robert K Merton | Latent and Manifest Functions| Devience| Reference group|

Описание: This lecture explains the sociological ideas of Robert K. Merton, one of the most influential thinkers in modern functionalism. Unlike classical functionalists, Merton critically refined functional analysis and made it empirical, flexible, and suitable for real-world sociological research.
The lecture covers Merton’s intellectual context, his rejection of grand theory and raw empiricism, middle-range theory, manifest and latent functions, dysfunctions, functional alternatives, reference group theory, bureaucracy, and his famous strain theory of deviance.
Designed with colourful infographic slides, this lecture is ideal for UGC NET, UPSC Sociology Optional, State PSC exams, and university students. Concepts are explained clearly, critically, and in an exam-ready manner.
🧠 Topics Covered
Intellectual context and orientation of Robert K. Merton
Critique of grand theory and abstracted empiricism
Middle-range theory
Manifest and latent functions
Dysfunctions in functionalism
Functional alternatives and functional equivalents
Strain theory of deviance
Reference group theory
Bureaucracy and dysfunctions
Contribution and legacy of Merton
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