"On Social Facts" is a philosophical essay by Émile Durkheim, a foundational figure in sociology. In this work, Durkheim explores the nature of social facts, which he defines as the norms, values, and structures that shape society and influence individual behavior. He argues that these facts exist independently of individual will and must be studied as things in their own right. Durkheim emphasizes that social facts can be observed and measured, much like physical phenomena. He categorizes them into two types: material social facts, such as institutions and laws, and non-material social facts, like collective beliefs and values. This framework helps sociologists understand how society functions and evolves.