Rühmateadvus

Rühmateadvus, often translated as group consciousness or collective consciousness, refers to the shared beliefs, ideas, moral attitudes, and knowledge that are common to a social group or society. It is a concept that has been explored in sociology and anthropology to understand how individuals within a group are influenced by the collective thought and behavior of that group.

Émile Durkheim, a foundational figure in sociology, extensively discussed rühmateadvus in his work. He viewed it as a force that binds individuals together, creating social solidarity and a sense of belonging. For Durkheim, rühmateadvus is not simply the sum of individual consciousnesses; rather, it is a distinct social reality that exists independently of any single person. This collective consciousness shapes individual perceptions, actions, and even their sense of self.

The concept suggests that certain ideas, values, and norms are internalized by individuals through socialization. These shared understandings create a common ground for interaction and cooperation. When individuals deviate significantly from this rühmateadvus, they may face social sanctions or be seen as outsiders. The strength and nature of rühmateadvus can vary greatly between different societies and even within sub-groups of a larger society. Modern discussions sometimes relate this concept to phenomena observed in online communities or through mass media influence.