Introductory Sociology CLEP Prep Practice Exam 2025 - Free Sociology CLEP Practice Questions and Study Guide

The concept of "anomie" is credited to Émile Durkheim, a foundational figure in sociology. Durkheim introduced the term in his seminal work "The Division of Labor in Society" and later expanded on it in "Suicide." He used "anomie" to describe a state of normlessness or a breakdown of social norms within society, particularly during periods of rapid social change or upheaval. Durkheim argued that when societies experience a disconnect from accepted standards and values, individuals may feel disoriented, alienated, and disconnected from their community, leading to social instability and even an increase in suicide rates.

Durkheim’s exploration of anomie was crucial to his broader theories about how societal structures influence individual behavior and mental health, thereby establishing an important sociological framework that examines the relationships between the individual and society. His work laid the foundation for understanding how social integration and regulation contribute to individual well-being and societal cohesion.