Ferdinand Tönnies

Ferdinand Tönnies was a German sociologist best known for distinguishing two types of social relationship: *Gemeinschaft* and *Gesellschaft*. *Gemeinschaft* refers to communities rooted in close, personal bonds such as family or local neighborhoods, emphasizing shared values and traditions. *Gesellschaft*, on the other hand, describes more impersonal, goal-oriented associations typical of modern societies, like businesses or urban life. His work helps explain how social interactions change as societies evolve from tradition-based to more individualistic, highlighting the impact on community cohesion and social structure.