The state of normlessness or breakdown of social norms is known as:

The concept of anomie refers to a state of normlessness or a breakdown of social norms within a society. This term was notably popularized by the sociologist Émile Durkheim, who used it to describe the social instability resulting from the erosion of standards and values. When anomie occurs, individuals may feel disconnected from societal norms, leading to confusion about how to behave and what to expect from others.

Anomie can arise during periods of rapid social change, such as economic upheaval or shifts in cultural values, as traditional norms become less clear and are often replaced with new, sometimes conflicting ones. This state can lead to feelings of alienation and uncertainty among individuals, as they struggle to navigate a world in which social guidelines are insufficient or absent. Understanding anomie is crucial in sociology as it provides insight into the relationship between societal structures and individual behavior.