In search of the original image of Durkheim's social theory

The construction of the theory of “sociologie morale”

Abstract

The essential trait of his social theory consists, as is generally known, in “la morale” as its theoretical core. Nevertheless, the problem as to what “la morale” means at all in his theory has not been altogether clarified. This essay, tracing some of the most important points in his theoretical developments, will investigate the constitution of “la morale” and, putting stress on its genetical aspect, clarify the original image of his scholarly insight on which his whole social theory is founded. Lastly, consideration is given to a perspective that will enable us to develop his achievements further on and open up new theoretical dimensions of “sociologic morale”.