Q: Explain Durkheim's basic arguments on suicide. Can you analyse high suicide rates of contemporary Indian society with Durkheim's theory?

Model Answer:

Theory of Suicide by Durkheim

Emile Durkheim, a French sociologist, published his groundbreaking work “Le Suicide” in 1897, where he examined the social factors that contribute to suicide. Durkheim’s basic arguments on suicide can be summarized in the following points:

Durkheim argued that suicide is not just an individual act but a social phenomenon influenced by social factors. He believed that the rate of suicide is determined by the degree of social integration and moral regulation in a society.

Types of Suicide

Durkheim identified four types of suicide based on the levels of social integration and moral regulation:

1. Egoistic suicide: This type of suicide occurs when individuals feel detached from society due to weak social bonds. They lack a sense of belonging and purpose, leading to feelings of isolation and despair.
2. Altruistic suicide: This type of suicide occurs when individuals are overly integrated into society, leading them to sacrifice their lives for the collective good or in adherence to social norms.
3. Anomic suicide: This type of suicide occurs when individuals face a sudden change in their social or economic circumstances, leading to a breakdown of moral regulation and a sense of normlessness.
4. Fatalistic suicide: This type of suicide occurs when individuals experience excessive moral regulation and oppressive social conditions, leading them to feel trapped and hopeless.

Analyzing High Suicide Rates in Contemporary Indian Society with Durkheim’s Theory

Egoistic suicide: Rapid urbanization and modernization in India have led to the breakdown of traditional social structures and support systems. This has resulted in weaker social bonds and a sense of isolation among individuals, making them more vulnerable to egoistic suicide.

Altruistic suicide: In some parts of India, cultural practices and beliefs may contribute to altruistic suicide. For example, the practice of ‘Sati’ (now illegal) involved widows sacrificing their lives on their husband’s funeral pyre as a sign of devotion and loyalty.

Anomic suicide: The rapid economic growth and social change in India have led to increased competition, unemployment, and income inequality. These factors can contribute to a sense of normlessness and insecurity, making individuals more susceptible to anomic suicide.

Fatalistic suicide: In some regions of India, oppressive social conditions, such as caste discrimination and gender inequality, can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, making individuals more prone to fatalistic suicide.

In conclusion, Durkheim’s theory of suicide can help explain the high suicide rates in contemporary Indian society. Factors such as weak social bonds, rapid social change, and oppressive social conditions can contribute to different types of suicide in the Indian context. However, it is essential to consider other cultural, economic, and psychological factors when analyzing suicide rates in any society.