What are the two main categories of means to achieve goals as per differential opportunity theory?

Differential opportunity theory, developed by Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin, emphasizes that individuals have different means available to them to achieve societal goals due to their varying social circumstances. The theory categorizes these means into two main types: legitimate and illegitimate.

Legitimate means refer to socially acceptable ways of achieving success, such as education, employment, and skill development. These paths align with societal norms and values and are available to individuals who can access them through their social networks, resources, and opportunities.

On the other hand, illegitimate means involve engagement in deviant or criminal activities as alternative paths to success. This can include theft, drug dealing, or other forms of crime that arise in environments where legitimate opportunities are scarce. Individuals may resort to these means when they find the legitimate ones inaccessible, often due to socio-economic constraints or lack of support systems.

Understanding these categories is crucial in the study of sociology as it highlights how social structure and individual circumstances shape behaviors and choices related to achieving success. This framework illustrates how systemic inequalities affect both the opportunities available to individuals and their ultimate life outcomes.