Émile Durkheim classified suicide into which of the following categories?

Émile Durkheim, a foundational sociologist, categorized suicide into four distinct types: altruistic, egoistic, anomic, and fatalistic. Each type reflects different social conditions and the relationship of the individual to society.

Altruistic suicide occurs when individuals are too integrated into social groups, leading them to sacrifice themselves for the perceived benefit of others or the collective. Egoistic suicide, on the other hand, takes place in contexts where individuals feel detached or disconnected from societal norms and bonds, leading to feelings of meaninglessness. Anomic suicide arises from a state of normlessness or chaos in society, often during periods of significant social or economic upheaval, where individuals feel lost and unsupported. Fatalistic suicide is characterized by excessive regulation and oppression, where individuals feel they have no control over their lives, though it is less frequently discussed in Durkheim's core works compared to the other three.

This classification by Durkheim emphasizes the importance of social integration and regulation in understanding the causes of suicide, showcasing that it is not merely a personal issue but one deeply interconnected with societal conditions.