which theorist believed in the collective consciousness

The theorist who is most closely associated with the concept of collective consciousness is Emile Durkheim, a French sociologist. Durkheim developed the theory of social integration and solidarity, which he believed was necessary for society to function harmoniously. He argued that collective consciousness refers to the shared beliefs, values, and norms that exist within a society, and these collective beliefs and values are crucial in maintaining social order and cohesion.

To learn more about Durkheim and his theory of collective consciousness, you can refer to various sources such as books, scholarly articles, or online resources. Reading Durkheim's original works, such as his book "The Division of Labor in Society" and his seminal work "Suicide: A Study in Sociology," will provide you with detailed insights into his theories. Additionally, you can explore academic journals that discuss Durkheim's ideas, as well as textbooks that cover sociological theories and concepts.