Expound Durkheims theory of anomie, bringing out the acute and chronic types. Evaluate Durkheims view that the main source of the malaise of modern society lies in this phenomenon. How could it be minimised?

Along with Marx and Weber, Durkheim outlined the characteristics of the transition of society to modernity and what was problematic with this shift. This essay will explain Durkheim’s ideas on this transition, concentrating on the division of labour and social cohesion. I will explain how this path to modernity may lead to a state of anomie and outline the difference between acute and chronic forms of anomie. Finally, I will look at whether or not the general sense of depression (or malaise) of modern society is due to anomie and discuss how anomie could be minimised.

In understanding the transition to modernity, Durkheim, like Marx, took a holistic approach and argued that society cannot be reduced to individuals’society’ was,  Durkheim argued, a phenomenon in its own right. It did not depend upon the intentions and motivations of individuals for its continued existenc…(short extract)