Definition: Anomie (Greek: a- = "without", nomos = "law") is defined inconsistency within the axionormative system, a sense of uncertainty and purposelessness in society as a result of sudden social changes and the breakdown of the social order. In such a situation, it is not certain which rules should be followed, because the standards that have been in force so far do not fit into the new reality, and the new ones are not yet formed. This leads to an increase in the number of deviant and criminal behavior and even suicide.
The concept was introduced into sociology by Emil Durkheim. He showed its influence of Anomie on a type of suicidal behavior which he defined as anomalous suicides, committed in the absence of regulations. Later, the concept of anomie was developed by Robert K. Merton, for whom this phenomenon was associated with the pressure of society on the individual. Social unitsthey are unable to achieve socially imposed goals or obtain socially recognized values by socially acceptable means, which leads to the emergence of deviant behavior in society such as rebellion, withdrawal, innovation or ritualism.
In studies devoted to religiosity Émile Durkheim noticed, despite his secular approach, that religion allows the individual to be "morally based in a group", which is lacking in a society devoid of the socio-creating functions of religion. He described such a state of disintegration of meaning as an Anomie. In modern society, in which new "regulators" of social life have not yet emerged, a new kind of anomalous suicides, resulting from the confusion of individuals, has developed. The number of suicides increased especially in the groups with the highest disintegration. In the work entitled "Suicide. A study in sociology" Durkheim showed, by presenting statistical data, that the economic crisis not only does not increase the number of suicides, but rather reduces them. Increased prosperity, in turn, leads to the stimulation of desires, greater opportunities, and the loss of significance of previous social principles, and to an increase in Anomie.
Additional article summaries by Emile Durkheim:
Emile Durkheim - The Rules of Sociological MethodEmile Durkheim - Suicide
"The Genesis of the Notion of the Totemic Principle or Mana" – summary and review" - part 1 -2 -3
What is a Social Fact?
Division of Labor in Society
Elementary Forms of Religious Life
Moral Education
Types of Suicide according to Emile Durkheim
Definition of social facts
On Morality and Society