Origins & Early Life

Robert King Merton (born Meyer Robert Schkolnick; July 4, 1910 – February 23, 2003) was an American sociologist who is considered a founding father of modern sociology, and a major contributor to the subfield of criminology. He served as the 47th president of the American Sociological Association. He spent most of his career teaching at Columbia University, where he attained the rank of University Professor. In 1994 he was awarded the National Medal of Science for his contributions to the field and for having founded the sociology of science.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Merton's contribution to sociology falls into three areas: (1) sociology of science; (2) sociology of crime and deviance; (3) sociological theory. He popularized notable concepts, such as "unintended consequences", the "reference group", and "role strain", but is perhaps best known for the terms "role model" and "self-fulfilling prophecy". The concept of self-fulfilling prophecy, which is a central element in modern sociological, political, and economic theory, is one type of process through which a belief or expectation affects the outcome of a situation or the way a person or group will behave. More specifically, as Merton defined, "the self...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• A. J. Ayer — Contemporary (Born in 1910) (1910): Influential English philosopher known for logical positivism and emotivism.
• Ahmed Ali (writer) — Contemporary (Born in 1910) (1910): Pioneering Urdu writer, poet, and diplomat from British India to Pakistan.
• Akira Kurosawa — Contemporary (Born in 1910) (1910): Master of Japanese cinema, known for dynamic style and epic storytelling.
• Alberto Sordi — Contemporary (Died in 2003) (2003): Pillar of Italian Cinema, master of Commedia all'italiana comedy.
• Althea Gibson — Contemporary (Died in 2003) (2003): Pioneering American tennis and golf star who broke racial barriers in sports.
• Barry White — Contemporary (Died in 2003) (2003): Iconic R&B, Soul, and Disco Singer known for his powerful bass voice.
• Abbas Kiarostami — Shared historical date (07-04 · Died) (2016): Master Iranian filmmaker known for blending fiction and documentary styles.
• Abe Saperstein — Shared historical date (07-04 · Born) (1902): Founder of the Harlem Globetrotters, revolutionized black basketball.
• Albrecht von Roon — Shared historical date (02-23 · Died) (1879): Prussian general and statesman instrumental in German unification under Prussian leadership.
• Alexander Yegorov (general) — Shared historical date (02-23 · Died) (1939): Soviet military leader and one of the original Marshals of the Soviet Union.
• 1910 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1910
• July 4 (07-04) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on July 4
• 2003 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2003
• February 23 (02-23) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on February 23