Abstract

The ethical value ofthe debate on values is dubious. The collision ofvalues, their implicit economic logic, the danger of a ›tyranny of values‹, and the gap between values and behavior show the problems of the value concept. Durkheims understanding of moral education insists on the social character of moral behavior. Morality has nothing to do with moral ideals and values. Morality is socially constituted in the first place. Durkheims programm of moral education goes from self-discipline over social abilities to autonomy. His plea for a universalistic morality can be seen in the context of Durkheims reflections upon bis situation as an assimilated Jew in France during the years of the Dreyfuß affaire.