Emile Durkheim: 'There are two types of men: the great and the small.'

There are two types of men: the great and the small.

In his famous statement, Emile Durkheim asserts that men can be divided into two distinct categories: the great and the small. At first glance, this quote may appear simplistic, categorizing individuals based on their level of achievement or societal impact. However, delving deeper into Durkheim's words, we can uncover a profound philosophical concept that challenges our understanding of greatness and encourages contemplation on the complexities of human achievement.On the surface, Durkheim's dichotomy seems to suggest that some individuals possess inherent greatness, while others are relegated to a lesser status. This interpretation may lead us to consider the achievements of historical figures like Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, or Martin Luther King Jr., who undoubtedly fall into the category of the great. Their contributions have had lasting impacts on society, science, and human rights, respectively. But what about the everyday people who are not widely recognized or celebrated for their achievements? Are they destined to be labeled as small?To explore this further, let us introduce the philosophical concept of existentialism into the discussion. Existentialism posits that individuals have the freedom to create their own meaning and purpose in life. According to this perspective, greatness should not be solely judged by monumental achievements or societal recognition. Instead, greatness can be found in the authentic expression of one's self and the pursuit of personal fulfillment, regardless of societal expectations or external validation.From an existentialist point of view, greatness becomes subjective rather than an objective measure. Each person has their unique set of skills, talents, and passions that they can harness to create a life of significance and fulfillment. A painter who dedicates their existence to capturing the fleeting beauty of nature on canvas may find greatness in the depth of their artistic expression, even if their work never hangs in prestigious galleries.Moreover, there is a fundamental interconnectedness among individuals that Durkheim's quote fails to acknowledge. Every significant achievement is built upon the cumulative efforts of countless small actions, unnoticed contributions, and collective endeavors. The great cannot exist without the contributions of the seemingly small. It is in recognizing this interconnectedness and valuing the often-unseen efforts of individuals that we can redefine the meaning of greatness and inclusivity.To illustrate this point, let us consider the analogy of a vast, intricate tapestry. The tapestry represents society, and each thread, no matter how seemingly insignificant, contributes to the overall design. Without the smaller threads, the grandeur and complexity of the tapestry would be diminished. In this context, greatness arises not just from the grand achievements but from the harmonious interplay of diverse individuals, each playing their unique part.In conclusion, Emile Durkheim's quote, "There are two types of men: the great and the small," serves as a starting point for a profound exploration of the nature of greatness and its relationship to individuality and collective efforts. While on the surface, the quote may suggest a hierarchical classification, it is essential to employ the lens of existentialism to challenge this presumption. By recognizing the subjectivity of greatness and appreciating the interconnectedness of individuals, we can redefine greatness as an authentic expression and contribution to the tapestry of life, honoring both the grand and seemingly small achievements of all individuals.