Year: 1991 Source: British Journal of Psychiatry, v.159, (1991), p.739-741 SIEC No: 19980611

This review highlights Durkheim’s main arguments in his book Le suicide. Durkheim’s argument that suicide could only be prevented by altering the structure of society is discussed. Durkheim’s 3 main reasons for suicide — egoism, altruism & anomy — are given, as well as examples & statistics to defend his assertions. Fatalistic suicide, Durkheim’s fourth reason for suicide, is also explained. Suicide is related to family, religion, culture & economic structure of a country.