Publisher's Synopsis
This is a study in the "Sociology in Focus" series examining how sociologists have studied suicide, and discussing some of the main criticism of their work, and considering what conclusions can be drawn from their research.;Particular attention is paid to the work of Emile Durkheim, and criticism made of it, and to the debate concerning the use of official suicide statistics. Alternative approaches to suicide are then considered. A final section contains extracts from some of the most important texts in this field.;Each book in the series, contains a selection of readings and documentary extracts, including statistical and quantitative data where relevant, as well as textual analysis. The series is designed to cover the requirements of A level sociology syllabuses, but should also be of interest to first year undergraduates.