Final answer:
Deviance refers to behaviors that violate social norms but are not inherently bad and often lead to social change, while conformity is the alignment with social norms, which can sometimes support damaging political systems like fascism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Deviance and Social Conformity
Deviance is defined as the violation of societal norms, which can differ vastly depending on cultural and temporal context.
In the realm of sociology, it is important to distinguish between deviant behaviors and criminal acts, the latter constituting formal transgressions against codified laws.
Deviance can contribute to social changes and is not intrinsically harmful or negative. In fact, behaviors once considered deviant, such as tattoos or single parenthood, have become normalized in many societies.
Conformity, on the other hand, refers to the act of aligning one's behaviors with societal norms or expectations.
Through conformity, individuals often adopt behaviors they deem socially acceptable, which can ironically lead to supranormal actions.
When conformity is promoted without question, it can sometimes result in the support of harmful political systems like fascism, characterized by authoritarianism and extreme nationalism.
The historical rise of fascism in Europe during the 1930s can be seen as an extreme example of conformity leading to the abandonment of democratic principles and the rule of law.
For sociologists, it is crucial to assess how conformity and deviance play roles within society and contribute to social dynamics.
These concepts can influence everything from fashion choices to political ideologies. Therefore, a nuanced understanding of how conformity and deviance interact provides valuable insights into societal behaviors and their potential long-term impacts.