Robert K. Merton (Robert K. Merton)

Robert K. Merton was a prominent sociologist known for his work on social structures and their influence on individual behavior. He introduced key concepts like the "self-fulfilling prophecy," where expectations can influence outcomes, and the idea of "role strain," which describes the stress from conflicting societal roles. Merton also developed the theory of social functions, explaining how different aspects of society help maintain stability or cause change. His work helps us understand how societal norms, institutions, and individual actions interact, shaping social order and change.