EXISTENŢĂ, EXPERIENŢĂ, CUNOAŞTERE UNIVERSALĂ. DISCURS DESPRE TRĂSĂTURILE DISTINCTIVE ALE NAŢIUNII ROMÂNE
Existence, Experience, Universal Knowledge. On the Distinctive Features of the Romanian Nation

Summary/Abstract: The first part of the work includes an introduction to the sociological approach to the concept of nation and its application to the case of the Romanian nation. In the beginning, the author emphasizes the complexity of the attempt at stressing out the specific traits of a nation, those features that endow it with a distinctive individuality. Although he acknowledges that knowledge in socio-humanistic disciplines is quite relative, he sides with those who believe in its scientific character and their “equality” with exact sciences. After that, he presents in a way that reminds of D.Gusti’s sociological monograph the framework elements relevant for the emergence of the Romanian nation: geographical area, psycho-social environment in the Carpathian area, significant events in the Romanians’ struggle of self-assertion, chiefly those from the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. In order to support his thesis according to which the human community evolves towards its most accomplished form, I. Clopoţel also adduces philosophical, psychological, geological, and biological arguments that uphold the evolution of life from inferior to superior forms. Hereinafter, the author focuses upon the different forms of organizing the social life, upon its evolution from inferior to superior. The final point of evolution, of the progress of human society is, in his view, represented by the nation, a social structure which provides and ensures the favorable framework for affirming and making the most out of the qualities of the individuals who make it. The individual-society relation is analyzed within this context, referring to the views of well-thought-of sociologists with whose works he was acquainted since his youth. Furthermore, I. Clopoţel reflects upon some of the material and spiritual “manifestations” (elements of traditional culture and art, mentality and psychic traits etc.) through which the nation has came and still comes into prominence within the international context. Although he ascertains that within contemporary society certain forms of supranational organization, called “universalities” appear, I. Clopoţel is optimistic in what concerns the future of the nation, affirming that humanity progresses due to original contributions of those well defined units, which are the nations.

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