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What did Durkheim think happened if society didn't limit us?

A. Increased individual happiness.
B. The emergence of strong social bonds.
C. Anomie, a state of normlessness.
D. Enhanced individual creativity.

User Leigha
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Final answer:

Émile Durkheim would argue that the absence of societal limits leads to a state of anomie, or normlessness. This disrupts social solidarity and can cause instability and higher rates.

Step-by-step explanation:

Émile Durkheim, a prominent sociologist, believed that if society did not impose limits on individual behavior, the result would be anomie, a state of normlessness where traditional norms and standards of behavior weaken. Durkheim thought that in the absence of a strong sense of social solidarity and collective conscience, individuals would feel disconnected and disoriented. This state of anomie could result in higher rates of and social instability as seen in Durkheim's study. Furthermore, Durkheim argued that even in a world where religion declined, society would not necessarily dissolve because secular institutions could adopt and reinforce new norms to prevent anomie. Therefore, in response to the original question, Durkheim would likely argue that if society didn't limit us, it would result in option C: Anomie, a state of normlessness.

User LWimsey
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