Robert Merton

Robert Merton was an American sociologist known for his contributions to understanding social structures and behaviors. He developed key concepts such as "strain theory," which explains how societal pressures can lead individuals to engage in deviant behaviors when they cannot achieve culturally approved goals through legitimate means. Merton also introduced the idea of "role models" in social roles and was influential in the study of the sociology of science, highlighting how social factors influence scientific research. His work has significantly shaped modern sociology, offering valuable insights into the relationship between society and individual actions.