Chinese Journal of Sociology ›› 2017, Vol. 37 ›› Issue (6): 134-164.

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State and Patrie:Durkheim on the Two Aspects of Political Society

WEI Wenyi   

  1. Department of Social Work, School of Labor Economics, Capital University of Economics and Business
  • Online:2017-11-20 Published:2017-11-20

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Abstract:

The 1905 French law on the Separation of the Churches and State defines the secular nature of the State and prohibits religious influence over politics and protects the liberty of conscience of the individual. The Act, however, contains a potential crisis:the tension between the liberty of conscience and the secular state. On the one hand, under its commitment to the general principle of freedom, the republican regime provides a legitimate way for individuals to seek political rights in the name of the liberty of conscience, and consequently, this action may challenge the authority of the State. As a result, the Republic and individuals gradually become estranged. Durkheim thinks that this crisis is rooted in French political tradition, especially "the principles of 1789". Different from the social contract theory and the doctrine of clericalism, Durkheim suggests that State and Patrie are the two aspects of political society with the paralleling ethics of individualism and patriotism, compatible to the characteristics of organic solidarity and mechanical solidarity. Personality cult is shared by the State and individuals. The State protects individual freedom but asserts its independence and authority. The State is the social brain. The metaphorical phrase of "the State the social brain" should not be understood literally in a physiological sense but as a way of classification. For Durkheim, patrie is the largest entity that ever exists. Patriotism is collective conscience and shared sentiment. People cannot fight their neighbors and compatriots for an invisible and abstract patrie. Patriotism should be rational and peaceful. It is concerned with domestic affairs, makes efforts to achieve social justice, and does not worship the power of the State. Finally, the relation between the Churches and State should be understood by taking into account of the development of individualism in the West. Even though religion continues its function, clericalism is no longer appropriate. After the separation, the State has full control of public schools, and thus provides an opportunity for secular moral education.

Key words: Patrie, State, Durkheim, Political Society