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Sociology:

Driving five miles per hour over the speed limit on a highway is breaking the law; so is driving after drinking a large amount of alcohol. How would a symbolic interactionist answer the following questions using labeling theory?
What is the difference between those two behaviors?
Which of the two behaviors is an example of deviance and why?

User Semafoor
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Final answer:

Using labeling theory, a symbolic interactionist would note that while both speeding and driving under the influence are illegal, the latter is more likely to be labeled as deviant due to its serious consequences and social stigma.

Step-by-step explanation:

A symbolic interactionist applying labeling theory would approach the question of the difference between driving five miles per hour over the speed limit and driving under the influence of alcohol by considering how society responds to and labels these behaviors. Speeding is typically a primary deviance; it doesn't result in a lasting perception of the individual as 'deviant,' nor does it have a profound effect on their self-image. However, driving under the influence is seen as more grave, usually incurring more serious legal consequences and social stigma, marking it as a significantly deviant behavior. Even if both actions are illegal, they are labeled differently: one as a minor infraction and the other as a dangerous and socially unacceptable act.

The behavior that most exemplifies deviance, in this case, is driving after consuming a large amount of alcohol because it is likely to be met with stronger societal reaction and labeling, contributing to the person's self-concept as a 'deviant.' Unlike minor speeding, which is often excused or overlooked, driving under the influence generally leads to harsher judgment and penalties, which reflects society's collective attitude that this behavior is more dangerous and therefore deviant.

User Anurag Pareek
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Step-by-step explanation:

Driving five miles over the speed limit is a minor crime that some cops may even not give a ticket for. However driving under influence is a crime that can result in a license suspension and a higher fine that only breaking the speed limit. They are both an example of deviance, because even though one is a lesser crime than the other, they are both still laws that have been set and that all drivers are aware of. Breaking either of these laws is a blatant disregard to the authorities, which therefore makes both behaviors an example of deviance.

User Hichem BOUSSETTA
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