anomie

Anomie (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does anomie mean?

A condition of social instability, normlessness, and lack of moral guidance or ethical standards.
"Anomie can lead to a breakdown in trust between individuals and institutions."

Detailed Meaning of Anomie

It is often used to describe a sense of disorientation and confusion that arises when social norms, values, and expectations break down, leading to a breakdown in social order and cohesion. Anomie is a concept that has been explored by sociologists and philosophers for over a century, with various theories and interpretations of its causes and effects. Some theorists view anomie as a natural consequence of rapid social change, while others see it as a symptom of deeper structural problems within society, such as inequality or institutional dysfunction. Anomie can manifest in different ways, such as increased crime, social unrest, or a decline in mental health and well-being. In some cases, it can lead individuals to feel disconnected from their communities, leading to a sense of loneliness and isolation.

Example Sentences for Anomie

1. Economic inequality can lead to feelings of anomie in society.
2. The breakdown of traditional values can contribute to anomie.
3. The sociologist studied the effects of anomie on urban communities.
4. Anomie can result from a loss of cultural identity.
5. The novel explored the theme of anomie in a modern city.
6. In times of crisis, individuals may experience a sense of anomie.

Origin and Etymology of Anomie

The noun 'anomie' has its roots in French sociology and can be traced back to the work of French sociologist Émile Durkheim in the late 19th century. It derives from the French word 'anomie,' which is a combination of 'an' (meaning 'without') and 'nomos' (meaning 'law' or 'norm'). Durkheim used the term to describe a state of normlessness or a breakdown in the social and moral order within a society. He observed that when individuals or communities experience a disconnect between their personal aspirations and the societal norms and values that guide them, it can lead to a sense of aimlessness, social instability, and a lack of moral or ethical standards. As such, the etymology of 'anomie' reflects its fundamental concept as a condition where established norms and values are lacking or eroded, resulting in a disoriented and morally uncertain social environment.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun anomie:

normlessness

order

harmony

stability

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Anomie

1. Social isolation can exacerbate feelings of anomie.
2. The film depicted a dystopian future marked by anomie.
3. Anomie can lead to deviant behavior in some individuals.
4. The psychologist studied the relationship between anomie and depression.
5. The war left a legacy of anomie in the affected regions.
6. Anomie can manifest as a sense of disconnectedness from society.
7. The government's policies aimed to address issues of anomie.
8. The philosopher pondered the philosophical implications of anomie.
9. The school implemented programs to counter feelings of anomie.
10. Anomie may arise from a breakdown of social cohesion.
11. The poet's work delved into the depths of human anomie.
12. The sociologist argued that anomie can lead to social unrest.
13. The documentary explored the root causes of urban anomie.
14. Anomie can challenge the fabric of a community's values.
15. The high crime rate in the city was seen as a symptom of the anomie that had taken hold of the community.
16. Many sociologists believe that anomie is a consequence of rapid social change and modernization.
17. The feeling of anomie and disconnection was overwhelming for many during the pandemic lockdowns.
18. Anomie can lead to feelings of alienation, hopelessness, and despair.
19. The breakdown of social norms and values has led to a sense of anomie among many young people.
20. The rise of individualism in modern society has been linked to the prevalence of anomie.
21. The sense of anomie in the aftermath of the natural disaster led to a breakdown in social order and cooperation.
22. The anarchist movement has been associated with a rejection of mainstream values and a sense of anomie.
23. The social upheavals of the 1960s were seen as a response to the anomie of post-war society.
24. The sense of anomie in the workplace was attributed to a lack of clear goals and direction from management.
25. The sociologist Émile Durkheim was one of the first to develop a theory of anomie, seeing it as a consequence of the breakdown of traditional social structures.