Georg Simmel Quotes

A collection of quotes by Georg Simmel.

Georg Simmel (1858-1918) was a German sociologist, philosopher, and scholar who made profound contributions to the field of sociology. Born in Berlin, Germany, Simmel pursued his higher education in philosophy, history, and art history at the University of Berlin. He went on to earn his doctorate in philosophy, specializing in the philosophy of nature and idealism.

Simmel's work revolutionized the field of sociology, emphasizing the importance of examining social interactions and dynamics in modern society. He explored various social phenomena, including social differentiation, urban life, fashion, money, and social interactions among individuals. Simmel was among the first sociologists to study the effects of modernization and urbanization on social relationships and individual experiences.

His major works include "The Philosophy of Money," where he examined the role of money in shaping social relationships, "The Metropolis and Mental Life," in which he analyzed the psychological effects of living in a large city, and "Fashion," exploring the role of fashion in social structures and individual identity. Simmel's unique approach to sociology, which combined philosophy, psychology, and anthropology, greatly influenced future sociologists and social theorists.

Despite his groundbreaking contributions, Simmel's work did not receive widespread recognition during his lifetime. However, he remains a significant figure in the development of sociological thought and has inspired generations of scholars to analyze and understand the complexities of social life.

The metropolis reveals itself as one of those great historic

The metropolis reveals itself as one of those great historical formations in which opposing streams which enclose life unfold, as well as join one another with equal right.

Georg Simmel

Life Rights

Discretion is nothing other than the sense of justice with r

Discretion is nothing other than the sense of justice with respect to the sphere of the intimate contents of life.

Georg Simmel

Respect

Every relationship between persons causes a picture of each

Every relationship between persons causes a picture of each to take form in the mind of the other, and this picture evidently is in reciprocal relationship with that personal relationship.

Georg Simmel

Relationship

For, to be a stranger is naturally a very positive relation

For, to be a stranger is naturally a very positive relation it is a specific form of interaction.

Georg Simmel

Positive

In the latter case life rests upon a thousand presupposition

In the latter case life rests upon a thousand presuppositions which the individual can never trace back to their origins, and verify but which he must accept upon faith and belief.

Georg Simmel

Faith

Every relationship between two individuals or two groups wil

Every relationship between two individuals or two groups will be characterized by the ratio of secrecy that is involved in it.

Georg Simmel

Relationship