Race and Suicide in South Africa

Race and Suicide in South Africa examines 1500 cases of suicide in Durban from 1940-70, revealing a revealing picture of suicide in South African ethnic groups. It challenges the idea of Durkheim and others that behavior in suicide conforms to certain universal principles and suggests the crucial role of particular social conditions in determining suicide trends.

Format: Hardback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1976, "Race and Suicide in South Africa" is a groundbreaking work that delves into the multifaceted phenomenon of suicide, encompassing both the personal and societal dimensions. Employing a Durkheimian approach, the book utilizes court records to analyze a substantial dataset of approximately 1500 cases of suicide that occurred in Durban between 1940 and 1970. Through a phenomenological examination of these cases, the author seeks to shed light on the unique patterns and trends of suicide among different ethnic groups in South Africa.

What emerges from this comprehensive analysis is a revealing portrait of suicide in South African society. The findings challenge the notion that suicide behavior follows universal principles and instead emphasize the crucial role of specific social conditions in shaping suicide trends. The author identifies common emotional syndromes among suicides, but also recognizes the diverse social factors that contribute to these phenomena.

One of the key findings of the book is that suicide rates are not necessarily correlated with high social status. Instead, the author suggests that a high suicide rate can be attributed to various factors, including economic inequality, social exclusion, and cultural pressures. The book highlights the experiences of marginalized communities, such as African Americans and indigenous peoples, who face higher rates of suicide due to systemic discrimination and social marginalization.

Furthermore, "Race and Suicide in South Africa" challenges the notion that a high suicide rate is solely a result of individual mental health issues. The author argues that social factors play a significant role in shaping suicide behavior and that individuals are often influenced by the broader social context in which they live. The book explores the impact of factors such as poverty, unemployment, and social disintegration on suicide rates, highlighting the need for comprehensive social policies and interventions to address these underlying issues.

In conclusion, "Race and Suicide in South Africa" is a seminal work that contributes significantly to our understanding of suicide in South African society. Through its rigorous analysis and thoughtful exploration of the personal and societal dimensions of suicide, the book offers valuable insights into the complex factors that contribute to this phenomenon. It challenges prevailing notions and provides a framework for addressing the urgent social and mental health challenges facing South Africa today.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032326702