According to functionalist Émile Durkheim, some deviance within society was viewed as:

• A. evidence of psychological disorders among individuals
• B. a sign of moral failure that should be eliminated entirely
• C. primarily caused by economic inequality
• D. necessary and beneficial for promoting social change and maintaining social cohesion

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the core idea of Émile Durkheim's functionalist perspective, which views society as a system where each part has a role in maintaining stability and order.
2. Recognize that Durkheim saw deviance not just as negative behavior but as something that can serve important functions within society.
3. Identify that, according to Durkheim, deviance helps clarify social norms by defining what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
4. Note that deviance can promote social change by challenging outdated norms and encouraging new ways of thinking or behaving.
5. Conclude that deviance contributes to social cohesion by uniting members of society in response to deviant acts, reinforcing shared values and norms.