Abstract
Largely because of its microsociological orientations, the sociology of deviance has failed to develop explanatory constructs for understanding the emergence, reproduction and disappearance of forms of deviant behaviour. In this paper the notion of ‘conditions of existence’ is discussed as a construct which avoids rigid determinism but allows for structural analysis. It is then used to explain the reproduction and demise of bushranging in nineteenth century Australia. As a form of ‘social banditry,’ bushranging depended for its existence on two conditions: class conflict which generated communal unity in rural areas, and the specific absence of politically institutionalised and effective means for structuring this conflict. Historical analysis of Australian bushranging indicates that the abrupt disappearance of the phenomenon in the 1880s, immediately after its highpoint in the Kelly outbreak, can be explained in terms of the disappearance of these two conditions of existence.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
