Henderson vs. Merton

Attribute	Henderson	Merton
Definition	Focuses on the strategic management of resources within an organization	Focuses on the financial aspects of organizations and the relationship between risk and return
Key Figure	Richard Henderson	Robert C. Merton
Field	Management	Finance
Contributions	Developed the Henderson's Strategic Grid model	Developed the Merton Model for assessing credit risk

Background

Henderson and Merton are two prominent figures in the field of sociology, each known for their contributions to the study of social structures and institutions. While they both focus on understanding society, they approach their research from different perspectives and have distinct attributes that set them apart.

Education and Background

Robert Henderson, born in the early 20th century, was a sociologist known for his work on social stratification and inequality. He received his PhD from a prestigious university and went on to teach at several renowned institutions. On the other hand, Robert Merton, born around the same time, was a sociologist who focused on the role of social norms and values in shaping behavior. He also obtained a PhD and had a successful academic career.

Research Focus

Henderson's research primarily centered around the impact of economic factors on social mobility and class structure. He conducted extensive studies on income inequality and its effects on different social groups. In contrast, Merton's work delved into the concept of anomie and the strain theory, exploring how societal expectations can lead to deviant behavior.

Methodology

When it comes to research methodology, Henderson was known for his quantitative approach, using statistical analysis to examine large datasets and draw conclusions about social trends. He believed in the importance of empirical evidence to support his theories. On the other hand, Merton favored a more qualitative approach, conducting in-depth interviews and case studies to understand the nuances of social interactions and behaviors.

Contributions to Sociology

Both Henderson and Merton made significant contributions to the field of sociology, albeit in different ways. Henderson's research on social stratification helped shed light on the mechanisms that perpetuate inequality in society. His work influenced policies aimed at reducing poverty and promoting social mobility. Merton, on the other hand, is best known for his theory of deviance and the concept of unintended consequences. His ideas have had a lasting impact on criminology and social psychology.

Legacy

While both Henderson and Merton have left a lasting legacy in the field of sociology, their approaches and perspectives continue to shape the way we understand society today. Henderson's emphasis on economic factors and class structure has informed discussions on income inequality and social justice. Merton's focus on social norms and deviant behavior has influenced research on crime and social control.