Ferdinand Tönnies
German sociologist who distinguished between Gemeinschaft (community) and Gesellschaft (society) in analyzing social ties.
Most quoted
"The theory of Gemeinschaft starts from the assumption of perfect unity of human wills as an original or natural condition, which is more or less modified and weakened by the formation of the state and by the development of society."
— from Gemeinschaft und Gesellschaft, 1887
"In Gemeinschaft, people are bound together by common will, by shared values, and by a sense of belonging. In Gesellschaft, they are bound by rational self-interest and by contractual agreements."
— from Gemeinschaft und Gesellschaft, 1887
"Education in Gemeinschaft emphasizes tradition and moral values. Education in Gesellschaft emphasizes individual achievement and technical skills."
— from Gemeinschaft und Gesellschaft, 1887
All quotes by Ferdinand Tönnies (102)
The sociologist's task is to analyze the forms of human coexistence.
The will is the fundamental concept of all social science.
The study of social types is essential for understanding social reality.
The concept of 'moral economy' is more prevalent in Gemeinschaft, where economic activity is guided by social norms and reciprocity.
The market is the quintessential institution of Gesellschaft, where all relations are reduced to exchange values.
The intellectualization of life is a consequence of the dominance of Gesellschaft.
The crisis of modernity is a crisis of Gemeinschaft, a loss of authentic community.
The future of society depends on finding a balance between the needs of Gemeinschaft and the demands of Gesellschaft.
Sociology must be a science of understanding, not just explanation.
The concept of 'organic will' is a more appropriate term for Gemeinschaft than 'natural will'.
The distinction between Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft is a heuristic device, a tool for understanding social reality, not a rigid dichotomy.
Community is a lasting and genuine form of living together, in which numerous individuals, united in space and time, form a coherent whole.
Society rests on the supposition of progressive independence and increasing individualism.
The essence of society is the contract, the agreement of isolated individuals.
In community, the whole is prior to the parts; in society, the parts create the whole.
Customs and traditions bind the community, while rational calculation governs society.
The family is the natural basis of community life.
Modern society is characterized by the division of labor and mechanical solidarity.
Will is the driving force behind all social action.
Essential will unites people in harmony; arbitrary will separates them in competition.
Contemporaries of Ferdinand Tönnies
Other Sociologys born within 50 years of Ferdinand Tönnies (1855–1936).