Lewis A. Coser

Some Functions of Deviant Behavior and Normative Flexibility

This paper examines a series of instances which call attention to the positive functions of deviance for social structures. Among the latent functional contributions are the role of the deviant in arousing the community to the consequences of the breach of its norms, and the fact that deviance may be considered the very ground of normalcy. Various structural and situational circumstances which lead the group to tolerate or even to foster deviance are considered. Criminal deviance is distinguished from nonconformist innovating behavior; and various types of innovating departures from normalcy are considered from the dual viewpoint of structurally induced motivation and of impact on group structure.

Georg Simmel's Style of Work: A Contribution to the Sociology of the Sociologist

The peculiarities of Simmels style of work are accounted for in terms of a consideration of his role within the academic structure of the Germany of his time. His non-conformity and innovation are explained, at least in part, in terms of his academic role set and the pressures exerted by the social structure of the academy.

Some Aspects of Soviet Family Policy

Soviet family institutions have undergone significant changes in the last fifteen years. Unanticipated consequences of present-day family legislation in the Soviet Union in other institutional areas are subjecting the system to stresses and strains. Recent changes in family legislation are seen as an outgrowth of increasing stratification and restriction of mobility in Russian society.