Society and Psychology: A Study on the Dualism in Human Nature

Abstract

This study explores Durkheim's theories, highlighting the significant role of individuality and psychology in shaping social life. Durkheim believed that shared beliefs and values, or representations, were crucial for maintaining social cohesion within a society. Durkheim demonstrated the relationship of representations to collectivity—how ideas foster a sense of community—and emphasized their epistemological implications. This study used thematic analysis to investigate the various ways that human nature's dualism intersects with psychology. The findings revealed the complexity of human behavior and its impact on societal norms and values. The emphasis on ideas in Durkheim's theory of society is acknowledged in this article, along with the shortcomings that impeded his attempts to bring people and society together. Its examination of social integration and regulation ultimately fell short of addressing the diversity of individual experiences within society. In particular, Durkheim struggled to fully account for the complexities of modern industrial societies. He did not anticipate the extent to which social structures and norms could oppress certain groups within society.