The Mystification of Social Deviance

Abstract

In Western societies there are two fundamental views of social deviance: the absolutist and the relativist. This paper examines the assumptions underlying the predominant, absolutist conception of de viant behavior and their consequences for control and treatment of deviants. It then contrasts these with the relativist position. In highlight ing the differences between the absolutist and the relativist viewpoints, the author stresses (1) the significance of power in shaping public views of deviance, (2) the conception of diversity and dissent as pathological, (3) the role of moral indignation in social reactions to deviance, (4) the strategies of mystification used by dominant groups to bolster the ideological and moral monopoly of their views in the conventional social order, and (5) the cooptation of scientists, psychiatrists, and other social control agents in this mystification progress.