SOC101Y1 Chapter 5: Chapter 5.docx
Document Summary
Concept of anomie was devised by durkheim, revised my merton and criticised by many others. Anomie is a psychological state of confusion and disorientation due to insufficient regulation in society, also seen as a characteristic of society, particularly under capitalism. According to durkheim, anomie as a condition of society occurs as the society transforms from agrarian to industrial state. It remains a strong way to situate deviance in society as a response of the individual to the structural conditions within society. Thus, anomie helps explain the dissatisfaction of individuals in the modern, western and capitalist society. Just like functionalism, anomie has become a routine conceptual folly to be demolished before someone moves to a more rewarding ground. Robert merton"s version of anomic theory: fierce critical onslaught. Durkheim"s theory, however, has received a more sympathetic treatment mainly because durkheim is a central figure in sociological history and anomie is a central concept of his thought.
