Deviance and Control: The Secular Heresy

In the early 1970s, sociologists rejected the belief that sociological knowledge was objective or value-free. This book, published in 1976, provided a readable and controversial reply to this belief. It set the question of deviance and its control in a wider perspective by examining our beliefs about social order and the manner in which such order was imposed. It draws widely upon history, sociology, and philosophy, providing essential reading for students of sociology, crime, deviance, social work, and the law.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the early 1970s, a significant shift occurred within the realm of sociological thought, particularly among radical theorists who studied crime and deviance. These scholars boldly challenged the notion that sociological knowledge could be objective or value-free, a belief that had long dominated the literature of criminology, deviance, and social work. Their influential work, often backed by solid reasoning, had gained widespread recognition and influence.

In response to this prevailing mindset, Professor Morris released his groundbreaking book in 1976. The book, originally published in 1976, aimed to provide a thought-provoking and controversial response to the prevailing discourse. It was widely believed that the book would unlikely satisfy both materialist and positivist perspectives, as it straddled the boundaries between social science and psychoanalysis. However, what made the book truly unique was its ability to present a comprehensive and accessible exploration of deviance and its control without being weighed down by excessive statistics or jargon-laden exegeses of criminological and deviance theory.

Rather, Professor Morris took a broader approach by examining the prevailing beliefs about social order during that time and the mechanisms employed to impose such order. He drew upon a rich tapestry of historical, sociological, and philosophical insights, offering students of sociology, crime, deviance, social work, and law a valuable and essential reading experience. Through his comprehensive analysis, Professor Morris shed light on the complex interplay between societal norms, individual behavior, and the broader social context, providing a deeper understanding of the dynamics that shape our understanding and response to deviance.

In conclusion, Professor Morris' book, originally published in 1976, stands as a seminal work in the field of sociological thought. It challenged the notion of objectivity and value-free knowledge, offering a fresh perspective on deviance and its control. By examining the beliefs of the time and the mechanisms employed to impose social order, the book provided a comprehensive and accessible exploration of the topic. It remains a valuable resource for students and scholars alike, offering insights into the complex dynamics of society and the challenges we face in understanding and addressing deviant behavior.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032624648