The Life of Emile Durkheim

Abstract

This paper, a review of Marcel Fournier’s biography of Emile Durkheim – the first full-length ‘life’ of the classic sociologist to be published in the French language, highlights the continuing enigmas surrounding Durkheim’s life and career, as well as the fragmentary sources of available knowledge of his personality. It suggests reasons why aspects of Durkheim’s guiding motivations are likely to continue to remain unclear. In addition it notes the striking elements of his character that both drew disciples to him and contributed to what was often seen as his personal remoteness.