1. A condition in society in which acceptable standards of conduct and belief are weak or lacking; also, a similar condition in an individual commonly characterized by disorientation, anxiety, and isolation: "The anomy of the social scene was disrupted by riots on the streets; thus, breaking down the usual standards of conduct."
2. A reference to a lack of social or ethical standards when the absence of self-control has permitted desires to grow beyond all hope of satisfaction: "There is such a thing as anomic suicide that can come from suffering anomy when a person is convinced that there is no hope of satisfying his or her goals or objectives."
3. Apathy, alienation, or personal distress resulting from the loss of previously valued goals : "Emile Durkheim popularized this term when he listed it as a principal reason for suicide."

Emile Durkheim was a French social scientist and a founder of sociology who is known for his study of social values and alienation. His important works include The Rules of Sociological Method (1895).