Outsiders - Book Summary (2024)

Rules are created by social groups to establish what is considered acceptable behavior. When these rules are violated, the individual responsible may be deemed an outsider. However, those who break the rules may perceive the rule-makers as the true outsiders, imposing their rules unjustly.

The concept of deviance is multifaceted. One way to understand it is through statistical deviance, which simply refers to deviation from an average. However, this can include harmless differences, such as being left-handed. Another perspective is pathological deviance, which likens rule-breaking to a disease. Yet, there is no universal agreement on which behaviors are considered healthy or unhealthy. The social dysfunction perspective sees deviance as a factor that destabilizes society. However, what causes stability or instability in society is a matter of politics.

A more practical approach is to define deviance as the act of violating social rules. However, deviance is not solely dependent on the act itself, but also on the reaction it elicits from others. The same action can be considered deviant in one context but not in another. Laws are not applied uniformly across different groups, and some violations of rules go unpunished.

Therefore, deviance is not merely about the act of breaking rules. It also depends on how others perceive and react to these actions. Outsiders are not just those who violate rules, but those who are successfully labeled as such.

Rules vary across different social groups, reflecting their specific needs and traditions. When one group attempts to enforce its rules on another, conflict can ensue. Groups with more power are often more successful in enforcing their rules on less powerful groups. The concept of deviance underscores the disagreements over whose rules should be followed.

Final Summary: "Outsiders" by Howard S. Becker is a seminal work in sociology that explores the concept of deviance in society. The book, first published in 1963, examines how society labels and treats those who do not conform to social norms, or "outsiders." Becker argues that deviance is not a quality of the act a person commits, but rather a consequence of the application by others of rules and sanctions. The book also delves into the culture of deviant groups, such as marijuana users and dance musicians, and how they navigate societal rules.

Here are 10 specific actions that reflect the learnings from the book:

1. Question societal norms: Becker encourages readers to question the societal norms and standards that label certain behaviors as deviant.

2. Understand the relativity of deviance: Recognize that what is considered deviant in one culture or society may not be in another.

3. Empathize with outsiders: Try to understand the perspectives of those labeled as outsiders or deviants, rather than simply accepting societal labels.

4. Avoid quick judgments: Before labeling someone as deviant, consider the societal and cultural factors at play.

5. Engage with diverse groups: Broaden your understanding of societal norms by interacting with a variety of social groups.

6. Advocate for fair treatment: Stand up against the unfair treatment of individuals labeled as deviant.

7. Educate others: Share the knowledge you've gained about the relativity of deviance and the societal treatment of outsiders.

8. Reflect on your own biases: Consider how societal norms may have influenced your own perceptions of deviance.

9. Encourage open dialogue: Promote discussions about societal norms and deviance in your community or social circles.

10. Apply the learnings to your profession: If you're a sociologist, educator, or work in a related field, use Becker's insights to inform your work and approach to dealing with individuals who are considered outsiders.