According to the structural functionalist view, laws and crime serve what purpose in society?

From the perspective of structural functionalism, laws and crime play a crucial role in maintaining social order and reinforcing societal norms. This view, rooted in the work of early sociologists like Émile Durkheim, posits that laws are established to uphold collective values that are vital for the functioning of society. When individuals break these laws, it not only signals deviant behavior but also presents an opportunity for the community to come together in reaffirming shared beliefs and norms.

The reaction to crime—whether through punishment or social condemnation—serves to remind the members of society about the limits of acceptable behavior, thereby reinforcing social cohesion. This process helps individuals to understand the expectations within their social context and works to deter future deviance. By reaffirming societal norms, laws contribute to a sense of stability, cohesion, and predictability in social life, which are essential elements for the smooth functioning of any society.