Abstract
We use a 1987 interview with Robert K. Merton to contribute a chapter to the evolving paradigm of ‘Social Structure and Anomie’ (SS&A). This oral history reveals how Merton's early life experiences may have contributed to his views about universalistic American goals prescribing social ascent and about why, despite growing up in a slum, he did not theoretically link crime to disorganized neighborhoods. It also allows commentary on Merton's preference for middle-range theory and the consolidation of competing paradigms; on the Marxian and Durkheimian influences on his work; and on his responses to critiques of SS&A. We contend that this project should be seen as an ‘oral publication’, a means of transmitting knowledge valued by Merton.
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