Anomie

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈænəmi/

Definitions

• Noun: A condition or state of normlessness or breakdown of social standards and values in a society.
• A social or personal condition in which individuals or groups feel disconnected from the norms, values, or expectations of society.

Usage Examples

• The rise in crime was attributed to widespread anomie in the community.
• During periods of rapid societal change, anomie can become more prevalent as traditional values lose their influence.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word "anomia," meaning "lawlessness" or "without laws" (from "anomos," meaning "without law"), the term was introduced into sociology by Émile Durkheim to describe a breakdown in the social order.

Synonyms

• Lawlessness
• Normlessness
• Alienation
• Disintegration

Antonyms

• Social cohesion
• Order
• Regulation
• Stability

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different dialects of English, the pronunciation may slightly vary. For instance, in American English, "anomie" is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable (AN-ə-mee), while in British English, the stress may shift slightly (a-NOM-ee).

Historical Usage

First introduced by Émile Durkheim in his study of suicide and social structures, the term "anomie" describes the breakdown of social norms that leads to a lack of cohesion in society. Durkheim's work on anomie was central to the development of sociology as a discipline, particularly in understanding how modernity and industrialization affect social solidarity.

Cultural Nuances

Anomie is a concept that can vary in cultural significance. In Western cultures, it is often associated with social alienation and a breakdown of individual identity in the face of societal pressure. In contrast, in some Eastern cultures, it may be linked to periods of rapid modernization or urbanization, where traditional social norms are challenged.

More Information

Anomie, according to Durkheim, is most likely to occur in societies undergoing rapid changes, such as those experiencing industrialization, war, or social upheaval. The lack of norms or unclear societal guidelines can cause a disconnection between the individual and society, leading to a range of psychological and social problems, including depression, anxiety, and increased crime rates. Modern sociologists continue to study anomie, particularly in relation to the effects of globalization, technology, and the disintegration of traditional social structures.