...reireatism (the withdrawal into alcohol or other self -destructive behaviorl. Merton further explains that "it is only when a system of cultural values extols virtually above all else, common sense goals for the population at large while the social structure rigorously restricts or completely...

...we are to understand the social sources of antisocial behavior. A high frequency of deviate behavior is not generated simply by "lack of opportunity" or...above all else, certain common symbols of success far the population at large while its social structure rigorously restricts or completely eliminates...

...structure, a feudalistic caste order, may limit opportunities far beyond the point which obtains in American society today. It is only when a system of cultural...values extols, virtually above all else, certain common success-goals for the population at large while the social structure rigorously restricts or completely...

...ineffectual, strivings and the increasing use of illegitimate, but more or less effective, expedients. ... It is only when a system of cultural values extols, virtually above all else, certain common success-goals for the population at large while the social structure rigorously restricts or completely...

...we are to understand the social sources of antisocial behavior. A high frequency of deviate behavior is not generated simply by "lack of opportunity" or...certain common symbols of success for the population at lurge while its social structure rigorously restricts or completely eliminates access to approved modes...

...societies have a high rate of deviance. Merton stated the main idea of anomie theory in one long sentence: "It is only when a system of cultural values extols,...above all else, certain common symbols of success [cultural goals] for the population at large while its social structure rigorously restricts or completely...

...conditions of varying access to them. The essence of this hypothesis is captured in the following excerpt: It is only when a system of cultural values extols, virtually above all else, certain common The focus, in short, is on the way in which the social structure puts a strain upon the cultural structure....