Sociological Theory: Durkheim's Analysis of Suicide
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The Sociological Theory
Sociological theories regarding social reality are sets of propositions based on logical-causal integration. To be valid, a theory must provide causal explanations for the phenomena to which it refers.
Durkheim on Suicide
Published in 1897, this theory provides a broad scope for analysis. Durkheim sought to interpret the phenomenon of suicide sociologically. To ensure a purely sociological interpretation, he excluded elements pertaining to individual psychology, such as potential extrasocial influences, imitation, or suggestibility. He argued that the causes of suicide in each society must be found in the nature of the society itself.
Durkheim classified suicides based on their leading causes, reducing the diversity of suicidal acts to a limited number of types. He established three principal categories:
1) Egoistic Suicide
The suicide rate is inversely proportional to the degree of integration of the groups to which the individual belongs. The intensity of religious, familial, and political aspects acts as a protective factor against suicide:
- Protestants: Show higher rates due to lower social integration and a more competitive individual ethic.
- Catholics: Show lower rates than Protestants due to stronger community integration.
- Jews: Exhibit the lowest rates due to very strong familial and ethnic ties.
2) Altruistic Suicide
This rate varies directly with the degree of integration into the group. It is found in tribal societies where social cohesion is very high, or within militant groups in modern societies. Current populations show a lower degree of this type compared to egoistic suicide.
3) Anomic Suicide
This results from the weakening of social bonds and a state of detachment from society, occurring when there is a lack of clear rules of conduct. Its frequency varies according to economic fluctuations; both economic crises and periods of sudden euphoria undermine social cohesion. When this occurs, the least integrated members suffer the most.