Emile Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide and Its Relevance in Today’s Society
Sathyanandan Prabakaran
Certified Independent Director | Pan India Sales Head | Textile Manufacturing | Textile Machinery | Industrial Automation | Market Entry Strategy | Operations Management | Technologist | Certified Data Scientist |
Understanding Emile Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide and Its Relevance in Today’s India
Emile Durkheim, a famous sociologist, studied suicide over a century ago and showed that it is not just a personal issue but deeply connected to society. He explained that social forces, not just individual problems, play a major role in why people take this extreme step.
Durkheim identified four types of suicide:
• Egoistic Suicide – Happens when a person feels isolated from society. • Altruistic Suicide – Happens when a person sacrifices their life for the group or nation. • Anomic Suicide – Happens during sudden social or economic changes, creating normlessness. • Fatalistic Suicide – Happens under extreme control, when life feels hopeless.
How This Applies to India Today
India is changing fast. Urbanization, economic changes, and technology are reshaping our way of life. But these changes also bring big challenges.
Recent statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2022 Report highlight alarming facts: • The suicide rate in India rose to 12.4 per 100,000 population in 2022, a 3.3% increase from the previous year. • About 13,000 students died by suicide, which is 7.6% of total suicides in India. • The age group 18-30 years accounted for 35% of all suicide cases.
Many young Indians, especially in cities, feel lonely and disconnected. Economic uncertainty and job loss increase stress, especially after events like the COVID-19 lockdown. Family pressure and cultural expectations sometimes make the situation worse, particularly for women and marginalized communities.
Why Durkheim’s Theory Still Matters
Durkheim’s theory teaches us that suicide is not just a personal tragedy. It reflects the state of our society. • Are people connected to family, friends, and work? • Does society offer support in hard times? • Are social changes happening too fast without proper guidance?
Government helplines, mental health awareness campaigns, and community support groups are important steps. But we must also build strong relationships, talk openly about mental health, and educate society about these issues.
Let’s Take Action
• Start open conversations about mental health. • Support those who are struggling without judgment. • Push for better mental health services and social support.
Understanding suicide as a social issue helps us build a more caring and supportive society. Every life matters, and together, we can reduce this tragedy.
References
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1w“A very relevant application of Durkheim’s framework to India’s alarming suicide trends. The linkage between social structures and individual despair is well captured. Highlighting student suicides and youth vulnerability makes it powerful. Strengthening community awareness, mental health systems, and policy action completes the picture.”