noun
- a state of society in which there is a breakdown of social norms and values, leading to instability and a lack of moral guidance
Usage: also spelled 'anomie'; sociological term
Examples
- The sociologist studied the anomy that emerged in the community after the economic collapse.
- During periods of anomy, crime rates often increase due to weakened social bonds.
- The novel explores themes of anomy and alienation in modern urban society.
- Anomy can occur when rapid social change outpaces the development of new norms.
- The researcher argued that anomy was a key factor in the civil unrest.