This book investigates the complex social meanings and constructions surrounding suicide throughout history and across different cultures. Jack D. Douglas, a sociologist known for his work on deviance and social problems, draws upon a wide range of historical accounts, sociological theories, and philosophical perspectives to analyze how societies have understood, judged, and responded to suicidal acts. The book presents an argument that suicide is not merely a personal tragedy but a socially defined phenomenon, shaped by the prevailing norms, values, and belief systems of a given time and place.

This work is recognized as a foundational text in the sociology of suicide, offering a nuanced perspective that moves beyond purely psychological explanations. Douglas's rigorous analysis and extensive research provide a comprehensive framework for understanding suicide as a social phenomenon. The book is frequently cited in academic discussions for its critical examination of societal attitudes and the construction of meaning around suicidal acts.