The case of the Weathermen: social reaction and radical commitment

Samenvatting

Present analyses of deviant behavior describe, stereotype, stigmatize, & dismiss with triviality behavior no longer motivated by need for external reaction. Much deviancy theory perpetuates reification by accepting an estranged society as normal; transactionalists stress negative labeling of behavior rather than analysis. Analysis of the politically militant US Weathermen suggests deviancy theories are insufficient: the Weathermen (1) were purposely deviant, (2) chose separation & alienation from external society, (3) were committed to a conscious volitional choice of transgressing law & order, & (4) were concerned with goals of the deviant behavior rather than personal identity with the deviancy. Labeling or social reaction theories obfuscate the role of intellectual thought; this blurs roles of belief in & commitment to deviant behavior. The Weatherman's commitment to an extreme deviant position marks direct interplay between beliefs & acts in a situated context. The rise of contemporary political deviancy necessitates reevaluation of theories of deviant behavior. T. Babitsky.