NCJ Number
118956
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: (Fall 1989) Pages: 269-283
Date Published
1989
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Durkheim's conception of individualism has been re-examined by Messner as an important cause of homicide rates.
Abstract
Messner contends that individualism, in the absence of social equality, acts as a counter-regulative force on behavior because it weakens the collective conscience and mechanical solidarity. As a result, social units cannot control serious crimes such as homicide. Messner also hypothesizes that strong individualism increases homicide rates when social equality is held constant. The authors' interpretation of Durkheim's proposition on individualism, however, indicates that individualism should lead to lower homicide rates, which is the exact opposite of what Messner contends. Further analysis indicates that the effect of individualism on the rate of nonhomicide crimes is in the direction predicted by Messner. It is possible nonetheless that homicide and other violent crimes are affected by individualism in the same manner because collective sentiments that protect the individual from becoming a homicide victim may also protect the individual from similar forms of violence. 26 references, 4 tables. (Author abstract modified)