However, there is a decisive difference between the unity of a society and the unity of nature. It is this: In the Kantian view (which we follow here), the unity of nature emerges in the observing subject exclusively; it is produced exclusively by him in the sense materials, and on the basis of sense materials, which are in themselves heterogeneous. By contrast, the unity of society needs no observer. It is directly realized by its own elements because these elements are themselves conscious and synthesizing units.

DEFINE: Distinguishes the Kantian notion of nature's unity (dependent on an observing subject) from society's self-synthesizing unity, where conscious members are themselves the unifying agents.

DEFINE: Explains a key conceptual distinction in social theory: society's unity is internal to its conscious members, whereas nature's unity is imposed by an observing subject.

Georg Simmel, on individuality and social…, loc. 168