Emile Durkheim: 'Each new generation is reared by its predecessor; the latter must therefore improve in order to improve its successor. The movement is circular.'

Each new generation is reared by its predecessor; the latter must therefore improve in order to improve its successor. The movement is circular.

In his profound statement, Emile Durkheim unravels an intergenerational cycle that we all play a part in. He asserts that each new generation is nurtured and shaped by its predecessor, creating a circular motion wherein improvement must be embraced by the former to enhance the lives of the latter. The inherent meaning of Durkheim's quote is straightforward and essential: the responsibility lies on our shoulders to continuously evolve and progress in order to provide a better foundation for future generations. However, to add an unexpected philosophical concept to this discussion, we can delve into the idea of existentialism and explore how it influences our understanding of this circular movement.Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought rooted in the belief that individuals are responsible for the meaning and direction of their own lives, adds an added layer of complexity to Durkheim's quote. By intertwining existentialism with his assertion, we can examine how our individual choices and actions contribute to the improvement of subsequent generations. The movement becomes more than just a linear progression; it becomes a deeply personal and introspective journey that impacts not only ourselves but also those who will follow in our footsteps.One way to understand this is by examining how existentialism places emphasis on personal agency and autonomy. If each generation is tasked with bettering themselves to improve the lives of those that come after, it implies that individuals hold the power to shape the future. By embracing the existentialist notion that we create our own meaning and purpose, we recognize that our choices and actions have a ripple effect that extends beyond our own experiences.Furthermore, existentialism challenges us to confront the existential angst that arises from our freedom and responsibility. In the context of Durkheim's quote, it urges us to reflect on the significance of our choices in shaping not only our own lives but also the lives of future generations. This recognition instills a sense of urgency and responsibility within us to actively seek improvement, not only for ourselves but also for those who rely on the foundation we lay.Drawing a sharp contrast between the deterministic nature of Durkheim's circular movement and the existentialist emphasis on personal choice may seem contradictory at first glance. However, these concepts can coexist harmoniously when we acknowledge that while we are shaped and influenced by our predecessors, we have the agency to break free from predetermined patterns and forge our own path.Embracing this perspective allows us to view Durkheim's statement not as a rigid circle where we are bound by the actions of our ancestors, but rather as a spiral that ascends with each passing generation. With every iteration, we have the opportunity to learn, grow, and build upon the foundations laid before us, all while adding our unique contributions to the collective progress of humanity.In conclusion, Emile Durkheim's quote reminds us of the dynamic and interconnected nature of generational improvement. Each new generation is indeed shaped by its predecessor, but the responsibility falls upon the previous generation to improve and create a better world for those to come. By intertwining existentialist philosophy into the discussion, we broaden our understanding of this circular movement. Existentialism emphasizes personal agency, encouraging us to recognize the weight of our choices and actions in shaping the future. Rather than seeing the cycle as deterministic and unchangeable, we can embrace the idea of a spiral, where each new generation builds upon the progress of the previous one. It is through this continuous improvement that we honor our responsibility as caretakers of generations yet to come.