Howard S. Becker

Howard S. Becker is a renowned sociologist best known for his work on how society defines and responds to deviance. His influential book, *Outsiders*, explores how behaviors become labeled as deviant and how societal reactions influence individuals’ identities. Becker emphasizes that deviance is not inherent in an act but results from social processes and judgments. His research highlights the importance of understanding the social context and the role of societal labels in shaping behavior, contributing significantly to the field of sociology and our comprehension of social norms and conformity.