What is "anomie" according to Émile Durkheim?

Émile Durkheim, a foundational figure in sociology, introduced the concept of "anomie" to describe a state in society where norms and values are unclear, weak, or altogether absent. This condition often arises during times of rapid social change, such as economic upheaval or shifts in cultural values, which can lead individuals to feel disconnected from the social structures that typically guide behavior.

Anomie can result in feelings of alienation and purposelessness among individuals, as the usual norms that govern behavior and expectations become ambiguous or non-existent. In this state, people may struggle with a lack of direction, contributing to social instability and various social problems like high rates of crime and suicide.

Durkheim's work highlights how societal changes influence personal well-being, emphasizing the importance of a well-defined set of community norms for maintaining social order. Thus, the characterization of anomie as a state of normlessness aligns closely with Durkheim's observations of social cohesion and individual behavior within society.