Emile Durkheim

Émile Durkheim was a French sociologist, often considered one of the founding figures of sociology. He studied how societies maintain their cohesion and stability, particularly through shared beliefs and practices, known as "collective consciousness." Durkheim emphasized the importance of social facts—norms, values, and structures that influence individual behavior. His work on topics like suicide and the division of labor highlighted the impact of social connections on individual actions. Durkheim believed that understanding these social dynamics is crucial for addressing social issues and enhancing societal well-being.