Which founder of sociology believed societies? This question delves into the foundational beliefs of one of the most influential disciplines in the humanities. The answer lies with Émile Durkheim, a French sociologist who revolutionized the field by emphasizing the importance of social structures and institutions in shaping societies.
Durkheim, born on April 15, 1858, in Épinal, France, is often referred to as the “Father of Sociology.” He founded the first university chair in sociology at the University of Bordeaux in 1895 and later became the chair of sociology at the University of Paris. Durkheim’s work focused on the study of social facts, which he defined as phenomena that are external to individuals and have coercive power over them.
In his seminal work, “The Rules of Sociological Method” (1895), Durkheim argued that societies are not just collections of individuals but are characterized by a set of norms, values, and beliefs that bind members together. He believed that these social facts are the building blocks of society and play a crucial role in maintaining social order. Durkheim’s perspective on societies was grounded in the idea that social cohesion is essential for the survival and progress of a group.
Durkheim’s theory of social solidarity, which he further elaborated in his book “The Division of Labor in Society” (1893), posits that societies can be divided into two types: mechanical solidarity and organic solidarity. Mechanical solidarity is found in simple, homogeneous societies where social cohesion is maintained through shared beliefs and values. Organic solidarity, on the other hand, is present in complex, diverse societies where social cohesion is achieved through specialized roles and interdependence among individuals.
Durkheim’s beliefs about societies had a profound impact on the development of sociology as a discipline. He emphasized the importance of empirical research and statistical analysis in understanding social phenomena. His work laid the groundwork for modern sociological theories and methodologies, influencing subsequent generations of sociologists such as Max Weber, Talcott Parsons, and Peter Berger.
In conclusion, Émile Durkheim, the founder of sociology, believed that societies are shaped by social facts, norms, and values that create a sense of social cohesion. His theories have had a lasting influence on the study of human societies and continue to be relevant in understanding the complexities of modern social structures.
