theory of suicide structural functionalism

The main criticism is that Durkheim does not account for individual or 'atavistic' characteristics (genes, personality, etc) which might be a necessary but not sufficient cause for suicide. As a structural functionist, Durkheim's work overall has helped conceptualize methodological holism as a legitimate unit of analysis for scientific evaluation, and this has been used to further social theory, social research, and methodology between methodological individualism and methodological holism.īasically, it means that Durkheim was not 100% successful in demonstrating that suicide is solely caused by social factors like unemployment, alienation, poverty, etc. Like you suggested, I think it is important to remember the difference between methodological individualism and methodological holism for explaining a phenomenon like suicide. However, Durkheim's work on suicide was an important piece of his argument for establishing that 'society' itself exists, and it is also credited with being a key part of how sociology became a legitimate academic discipline and science. There are studies which do find support for Durkheim's theory of suicide, but I would say that Durkheim was not entirely successful in demonstrating that social phenomena, such as suicide, cannot be explained by social factors. Overall yes there is support, but not 100%. We're always looking for verified experts willing to do an AMA, you might be surprised about the interest level in your field! Also see our past AMAsĪre you a social scientist? Verified experts receive topic specific flair, others may receive outstanding contributor flair!Īnthropology Archaeology Criminology Communication Economics Education Gender Studies Geography History Law Linguistics Philosophy Political Science Psychology Public Policy Social Work Sociology Physical Sciences Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Contributor Wiki Resources Report comments that are off-topic, politically motivated, speculative, or anecdotal unhelpful comments, such as memes or empty jokes or unsourced top level comments.

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Theory of suicide structural functionalism