Robert E. Merton

Robert E. Merton is an American sociologist and Nobel laureate known for his contributions to the understanding of social structures and their effects on behavior. He introduced key concepts like "anomie," the disconnect between societal goals and the means to achieve them, and "role models," emphasizing how individuals shape and are shaped by societal expectations. Merton's work also includes the development of theories related to deviance and the importance of norms in society. His ideas have greatly influenced sociology, economics, and the study of social behavior, helping to understand how society functions and impacts individuals.