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)
Joke: If society were a family, it would be the dysfunctional one next door.
Reflection: In retrospect, my life's work was to bridge past and future societies.
Contemporaries of Ferdinand Tönnies
Other Sociologys born within 50 years of Ferdinand Tönnies (1855–1936).