Communitarianism and Émile Durkheim’s Philosophy

Philosophy serves as a valuable tool in the pursuit of a more meaningful and fulfilling life, but the sheer volume of information available can often seem overwhelming. To truly benefit from philosophical insights, it is essential to return to foundational ideas and thinkers. One such figure is Émile Durkheim, whose philosophy and concepts, particularly the idea of communitarianism, offer profound relevance to this pursuit. By developing a deeper understanding of these principles, we can better apply philosophy to enrich our lives. This article will examine Durkheim’s philosophy, the notion of communitarianism, and their significance in fostering a more meaningful existence.

Key features of Émile Durkheim’s philosophy

Émile Durkheim, a prominent sociologist and philosopher, is best known for his work on understanding the structure of society and the role of social institutions. One of his key concepts was the idea of “social facts,” which are norms, values, and structures that exist outside an individual but influence their behaviour. He believed that these social facts are essential to maintaining order and cohesion in society.

Durkheim also explored the ways in which societies move from traditional, community-based models to more modern, industrialized systems. He introduced the concept of “mechanical solidarity” in traditional societies, where individuals are united by shared beliefs and values. In contrast, “organic solidarity” is found in modern societies, where people rely on each other due to specialized roles and interdependence.

Another significant aspect of Durkheim’s philosophy is his study of religion. He argued that religion serves as a key social institution that reinforces collective values and strengthens social bonds, even among diverse groups. Durkheim also analyzed complex issues like suicide, identifying social isolation or weak social ties as critical factors in this phenomenon.

Overall, Durkheim’s work aimed to show how social structures and shared beliefs shape individual actions and contribute to societal harmony. His ideas laid the foundation for modern sociology and continue to influence how we study and understand society today.

What is communitarianism?

Émile Durkheim viewed communitarianism as an integral part of understanding social cohesion and the way societies function. He believed that individuals are inherently part of a larger social structure and that their behaviours and identities are shaped by the collective norms, values, and beliefs of the community. For Durkheim, societies require shared moral frameworks to maintain order and unity. These shared frameworks exist within the “collective conscience,” a set of common beliefs that bind people together.

Durkheim argued that communities are essential because they create a sense of belonging and influence individual decision-making. He saw humans as social beings who depend on the group to give meaning to their actions and lives. According to Durkheim, the connections formed within a community ensure that individuals act in ways that support the stability and continuity of society.

While Durkheim acknowledged the importance of the individual, he emphasized that people cannot fully separate themselves from the social systems they belong to. He believed that society shapes moral values, guides behaviour, and provides stability by encouraging cooperation and reducing conflicts. For Durkheim, communitarianism was a way to understand how societies remain cohesive despite their inherent complexity.

This example helps to showcase this philosophical perspective. Durkheim’s ideas about communitarianism can be observed in his concept of “mechanical solidarity” in traditional societies. For instance, imagine a small village where all individuals are engaged in similar work, such as farming, and share the same cultural and religious practices. The harmony and cohesion within this community come from their shared values and collective consciousness, which bind them together. Each person’s role is well understood and respected within the group, reducing conflict and creating a strong sense of unity. The community thrives because individuals prioritize the needs of the collective over their personal desires. Durkheim argued that the shared identity and purpose of communities like this highlight how societal bonds are formed and maintained at a foundational level. This illustrates how connectivity and shared moral beliefs strengthen societal structures as a whole.

Challenges to Émile Durkheim’s view about communitarianism

Philosophers who object to Émile Durkheim’s perspective on communitarianism often raise concerns about its emphasis on collective values over individual autonomy. One of the main criticisms is that it can lead to the suppression of individual freedoms in favor of community goals. Critics argue that prioritizing the collective may result in the marginalization of personal beliefs and rights, especially when those rights conflict with the dominant values of the community. This potential for overshadowing individuality is a significant concern for those who value personal liberties as fundamental to human society.

Another objection comes from the fear that communitarianism may foster conformity and discourage diversity. By placing heavy importance on shared norms and social cohesion, some philosophers worry that unique voices and alternative perspectives within the community could be silenced. This critique emphasizes the risk of creating an environment where dissent and innovation are not welcomed, which could hinder social progress and the evolution of ideas.

Additionally, some critics highlight the challenge of defining and agreeing upon communal values in diverse and pluralistic societies. They point out that communities are rarely homogenous, and different groups within the same society may have conflicting values. Philosophers who hold this view argue that enforcing a single set of community ideals is not only unrealistic but can also lead to exclusion or discrimination against minority groups whose values differ from the majority.

Finally, there is the concern that communitarianism might blur the line between personal and public responsibility. Critics suggest that too much emphasis on the group could reduce individual accountability, as people may rely on the collective to handle issues that require personal involvement. This could, over time, weaken the sense of individual agency and responsibility, which many philosophers regard as essential to a well-functioning society.

These objections demonstrate that while communitarian principles seek to build stronger, more cohesive communities, they also raise questions about how to balance group interests with the rights and needs of individuals in a fair and just way.

Why communitarianism is important to Émile Durkheim’s philosophy

These are some of the main reasons why grasping the concept of communitarianism is essential to comprehending Émile Durkheim’s philosophy.

1. Focus on Social Bonds

Communitarianism emphasizes the importance of social bonds and relationships, which aligns with understanding how communities function as cohesive units. This idea highlights that individuals are not isolated beings but are deeply influenced by their connections to others within a society. By stressing the role of shared values and traditions, it becomes easier to explore how communities maintain stability and foster cooperation among their members. These social bonds serve as a foundation for mutual support, collective identity, and the overall well-being of a group, which are critical elements when examining social structures.

2. Collective Responsibility and Morality

Another key aspect of communitarianism is its focus on collective responsibility and shared morality. Instead of placing emphasis solely on individual actions, this perspective sheds light on how societal norms and collective expectations shape behaviour. It helps explain the importance of societal rules and shared ethical codes in maintaining balance and order. Without these shared responsibilities, societies risk falling into chaos or disconnection. By looking through the lens of communitarianism, one can better understand the role of moral frameworks in encouraging cooperation, accountability, and harmony within a community.

3. Interdependence of Individuals and Society

Communitarianism illustrates the interdependence between individuals and the larger society they belong to. It rejects the idea that people function independently of their social environment and instead underscores how communities influence individual development and decision-making. This perspective provides insight into how societal influence shapes personal identity, values, and behaviours over time. By emphasizing this interdependence, it is easier to grasp how individual actions can affect the collective, and vice versa, creating a dynamic relationship between the person and the community.

Contrasting Émile Durkheim’s philosophy with John Stuart Mill’s philosophy

Émile Durkheim’s focus on communitarianism highlights the importance of social bonds and collective life in shaping individuals and maintaining order within society. Durkheim believed that humans are deeply connected through shared values, norms, and institutions, which form the foundation of a cohesive community. This emphasis on group solidarity contrasts with John Stuart Mill’s philosophical approach, which centers on individual liberty and personal autonomy. Mill advocated for the right of individuals to pursue their own happiness and self-development, provided they do not harm others, prioritizing the freedom of the individual over the constraints of societal expectations.

While Durkheim saw society as an essential force that shapes individuals and their behaviour, Mill largely viewed society as a framework that allows individuals to express their uniqueness and creativity. For Durkheim, individuals gain meaning through their role in the community, whereas Mill emphasized the value of individual rights and the importance of protecting those rights from societal interference. This difference reflects a fundamental tension between their philosophies, with Durkheim focusing on the collective good and shared purpose, and Mill advocating for the individual’s freedom as a primary value. Despite their differences, both thinkers contributed significantly to discussions about the relationship between individuals and society, shaping how we think about personal rights and communal responsibilities.

Communitarianism, Émile Durkheim’s philosophy and the philosophy of life

Reflecting on Émile Durkheim’s view about communitarianism, whether you agree with it or not, holds significant value in shaping your own philosophy of life. This reflection invites deeper thinking about the balance between the individual and the community, an issue that touches every aspect of life. Considering themes such as how much responsibility you hold toward others versus your own freedom encourages introspection, helping you define what truly matters to you and how you want to live.

By thinking about Durkheim’s ideas, you challenge yourself to examine your relationships with the people, groups, and communities you belong to. Are you giving too much of yourself at the expense of your personal goals, or are you too focused on yourself and neglecting the needs of others? Facing these questions can help you strike a balance that aligns with your values. This exercise is not just about theory—it’s about figuring out how to prioritize your time, energy, and care in your daily life.

Reflecting on such views also sharpens your ability to approach complexity. The world isn’t black and white, and there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. Thinking critically about philosophical ideas like communitarianism encourages a thoughtful, flexible mindset, which is crucial for navigating dilemmas and conflicts. This practical skill isn’t limited to intellectual pursuits—it plays a key role in how you interact with the real world, make decisions, and connect with others.

Finally, considering these ideas fuels a broader sense of purpose. How do you see yourself contributing to the greater good? How do you find meaning in the give-and-take between yourself and the people around you? These reflections guide you in creating a life philosophy that is both personal and deeply connected to the society you live in. Even if your own ideas differ from Durkheim’s, engaging with them thoughtfully helps you grow and refine your own perspective. This is the practical importance of stepping into a dialogue with such philosophical views—it equips you to consciously shape your life with intention and awareness.

Further reading

Bellah, R. N., Madsen, R., Sullivan, W. M., Swidler, A., & Tipton, S. M. (2008). Habits of the heart: Individualism and commitment in American life (Updated ed.). University of California Press.

Durkheim, É. (1933). The division of labor in society (G. Simpson, Trans.). Macmillan. (Original work published 1893)

Durkheim, É. (2001). The elementary forms of religious life (C. Cosman, Trans.). Oxford University Press. (Original work published 1912)

Gellner, E. (1998). Conditions of liberty: Civil society and its rivals. Penguin Books.

Hadden, R. W. (1997). Sociological theory: An introduction to the classical tradition. Broadview Press.

Lukes, S. (1973). Émile Durkheim: His life and work – A historical and critical study. Penguin.

MacIntyre, A. C. (1984). After virtue: A study in moral theory (2nd ed.). University of Notre Dame Press.

Nisbet, R. A. (1953). The quest for community. Oxford University Press.

Tönnies, F. (2001). Community and civil society (J. Harris & M. Hollis, Trans. & Eds.). Cambridge University Press.

Turner, J. H. (1995). Émile Durkheim on institutional analysis. Routledge.