Charlottesville: A Durkheimian Perspective
Introduction
Emile Durkheim plays a pivotal role in the field of sociology. His innovative research paved the way to new theories that help us explain and understand the way society works. Durkheim is responsible for numerous contributions to the field of sociology, but is often known for his theories on collective conscience, solidarity, and anomie.
Collective Conscience Collective conscience denotes the interest of the collective level of society (Emile Durkheim). Durkheim's theory on collective conscience refers to the “totality of beliefs and sentiments common to average citizens of the same society” that “forms a determinate system which has its own life” (Durkheim 38-39) or collective representations. Religion is a great example of this theory. Religion involves a group of people sharing similar beliefs, with rituals and symbols that allow them to …show more content…
This type of society thrives off the individuality of others, and celebrates the differences among its members (University of Dayton). This type of society is dependent on one another. While conducting his research, Durkheim recognized that factors such as communication, and interaction with others caused a societal shift from mechanical to organic solidarity. The evolution of society regarding these factors is important, if a society changes too swiftly from traditional to contemporary, it causes a cessation of norms and a collective consciousness between different groups within society. This causes the ideals of community and social restraint to weaken, leading to chaos and anomie (Emile Durkheim's Theories: Functionalism, Anomie and Division of Labor). Anomie is defined as a lack of moral regulation; absence of norms or stablished standards; social upheaval. This Durkheimian theory helpful in explaining deviant behavior and
Introduction
Emile Durkheim plays a pivotal role in the field of sociology. His innovative research paved the way to new theories that help us explain and understand the way society works. Durkheim is responsible for numerous contributions to the field of sociology, but is often known for his theories on collective conscience, solidarity, and anomie.
Collective Conscience Collective conscience denotes the interest of the collective level of society (Emile Durkheim). Durkheim's theory on collective conscience refers to the “totality of beliefs and sentiments common to average citizens of the same society” that “forms a determinate system which has its own life” (Durkheim 38-39) or collective representations. Religion is a great example of this theory. Religion involves a group of people sharing similar beliefs, with rituals and symbols that allow them to …show more content…
This type of society thrives off the individuality of others, and celebrates the differences among its members (University of Dayton). This type of society is dependent on one another. While conducting his research, Durkheim recognized that factors such as communication, and interaction with others caused a societal shift from mechanical to organic solidarity. The evolution of society regarding these factors is important, if a society changes too swiftly from traditional to contemporary, it causes a cessation of norms and a collective consciousness between different groups within society. This causes the ideals of community and social restraint to weaken, leading to chaos and anomie (Emile Durkheim's Theories: Functionalism, Anomie and Division of Labor). Anomie is defined as a lack of moral regulation; absence of norms or stablished standards; social upheaval. This Durkheimian theory helpful in explaining deviant behavior and