Philosophical and Sociological Evolution of Suicide and Its Impact on Contemporary Society

Abstract

Objective: The general objective was to analyze the philosophical and sociological evolution of the concept and interpretations of suicide throughout history, from antiquity to contemporary society. Method: A document review methodology was used, using different sources such as books, articles, theses and websites. Results: The research highlighted that in classical Greece suicide was seen in different ways, from Pythagorean condemnation to Stoic acceptance, considered as a dignified act in the face of suffering. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was severely condemned due to the influence of religion, which applied very strict social and legal punishments. The Renaissance fostered a more humanistic appreciation that challenged the theological perspective. During the twentieth century, approaches such as existentialism and psychoanalysis enriched his understanding, considering it not only as a disorder, but also as a manifestation with ethical and psychological meanings. Currently, it is seen as an epidemic related to problems such as anxiety and depression, affected by information overload, boredom and social fatigue. Discussion: The main findings are that suicide is a complex phenomenon that needs guidance from different disciplines for its prevention and understanding, since it reflects both internal struggles and cultural and social changes. Conclusions: The conclusions highlight that any strategy to understand and address this phenomenon must be based on a varied, flexible and communicative approach, which takes into account its complex and constantly changing nature. This will allow for more effective responses to be generated that are appropriate to the historical and social characteristics of each context.