Essay Questions

How does Durkheim differentiate between egoistic suicide and altruistic suicide?

Durkheim explains that egoistic suicide is a result of somebody being outcasted or ostracized by society. It occurs as a result of "excessive individuation," where someone feels they do not belong to society. On the other hand, altruistic suicide is when a death is caused by excessive involvement in a society, where a person sacrifices his or her own life for the good of the whole. As such altruistic suicide is caused by involvement in a society, whereas egoistic suicide is caused by a lack of involvement in a society.

Who does Durkheim suggest is more vulnerable to suicide?

Durkheim suggests that people who are unmarried or single are particularly vulnerable to committing egoistic suicide, as they are less likely to be involved in the wider society and community. For the same reason, he argues that people without children are also at a greater risk. Durkheim also suggests that suicide rates are higher during times of peace than during war, and argues that men are more likely than women to commit suicide.