Emile Durkheim's Theory On Suicide

Emile Durkheim, one of the founders of the Sociological discipline published various paramount works – that shaped the substantive matter of Sociology and in addition advocated a specific research method. Durkheim’s work ‘On Suicide’, 1897 remains the most influential cannon of work relating to the conception of suicide as a social phenomenon.
The objective of this paper is to understand the theoretical mechanism that traces social causation advocated by Durkheim and the various social provocations that can cause recurring patterns of suicide. It seemed extremely appealing to understand the canonical theoretical perspectives on this subject as only with analysis that proposes relevant modifications in established sociological theories, can society attempt to academically understand social phenomenon in changing times. The scope of analysis in this paper, of Durkheim’s work is restricted to contemporary Indian society. The method utilised is the study of Durkheim’s book, ‘On Suicide’, 1897 which is exhaustive in covering his theories on the subject, and using relevant secondary sources on contemporary Indian society to analyse the significance of these theories.
Hence, the …show more content…
Understanding the phenomenon of suicide which remains part of the constant structure of society in the context of the changing times, or the flow of society, the extent to which change modifies the structure can be gauged. In conclusion, Durkheim’s theory of suicide as a social experience that determines and is determined by societal forces is still central to any sociological understanding of