Durkheim, Emile

Émile Durkheim was a pioneering French sociologist who studied how societies maintain stability and order. He believed that social institutions, shared values, and collective norms shape individual behavior, creating social cohesion. Durkheim emphasized that society is more than just the sum of individuals; it has a collective consciousness that unites people. His work explored topics like religion, education, and laws, showing that these are essential for understanding how societies function and stay connected. His insights laid the foundation for modern sociology, highlighting the importance of social bonds and collective practices in shaping human behavior.