What does "collective consciousness" mean?

"Collective consciousness" refers to the set of shared beliefs, values, and moral attitudes that provide a sense of unity and belonging within a society. This concept, introduced by the sociologist Émile Durkheim, highlights how individual thoughts and behaviors are influenced by the broader social forces at play. In a society with a strong collective consciousness, individuals tend to align their beliefs and actions with those of the group, reinforcing social cohesion and stability. Such shared understanding fosters a sense of togetherness and can significantly influence social norms and practices, shaping the way individuals perceive their roles in the community.

The other options reflect ideas that diverge from this concept. For example, a diversity of individual beliefs signifies pluralism rather than a unified consciousness. Similarly, an individual’s private thoughts and feelings focus on personal introspection rather than collective societal beliefs. Lastly, while cultural norms do evolve over time, this evolution does not inherently capture the essence of shared beliefs that bind a community together. Thus, the notion of collective consciousness emphasizes the collective aspect of shared understanding and social solidarity rather than a focus on individual perspectives or the mere evolution of cultural traits.