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Émile Durkheim

Phil

  • Age: 4
  • Role: Supporting character inThe Promised Neverland
  • Traits: Observant, intelligent, brave, loyal

Émile Durkheim
Born
David Émile Durkheim

(1858-04-15)15 April 1858

Épinal, France
Died 15 November 1917(1917-11-15)(aged 59)

Paris,France
Nationality French
Alma mater École Normale Supérieure
Known for Sacred–profane dichotomy
Collective consciousness
Social fact
Social integration
Anomie
Collective effervescence
Scientific career
Fields Philosophy, sociology, education, anthropology, religious studies
Institutions University of Paris, University of Bordeaux
Influences Immanuel Kant, René Descartes,Plato, Herbert Spencer,Aristotle, Montesquieu, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Auguste Comte. William James, John Dewey, Fustel de Coulanges, Jean-Marie Guyau, Charles Bernard Renouvier, John Stuart Mill
Influenced Marcel Mauss,Claude Lévi-Strauss, Talcott Parsons, Maurice Halbwachs, Jonathan Haidt, Lucien Lévy-Bruhl,Bronisław Malinowski, Fernand Braudel, Pierre Bourdieu, Charles Taylor, Henri Bergson, Emmanuel Levinas, Steven Lukes, Alfred Radcliffe-Brown, E. E. Evans-Pritchard, Mary Douglas, Paul Fauconnet, Robert N. Bellah, Ziya Gökalp, David Bloor, Randall Collins, Neil Smelser[1]

Storyline Highlights

  • Uncovering the Truth: Although he is kept in the dark about the full details, Phil notices discrepancies in Grace Field House and senses that there is something hidden from the younger children. This intuition sets him apart as one of the most aware and attentive children.
  • Staying Behind: Emma entrusts Phil with the responsibility of watching over the children who are too young to attempt the escape. Phil agrees to stay behind, showing remarkable bravery and selflessness. He promises to look after the younger children and to wait patiently until Emma and the others return for them.
  • Relocation: After the escape of the older children and the destruction of Grace Field House Plant 3, Phil is moved to another plantation with his close friends Sherry, Eugene, Carol, Milly, and Charlie. He continues to live under the care of a new guardian, Yukko, while awaiting the promised return of Emma and the others.
A collection of Durkheim's courses on the origins of socialism (1896), edited and published by his nephew, Marcel Mauss, in 1928

With a joyful smile and a spark of mischief, Phil immerses himself in play, radiating the innocent joy and creativity that make him a beloved figure among his friends.

Personality and Traits

Phil may be young, but he possesses an unusually keen sense of observation and a quick wit that make him a standout among the children at Grace Field House. Known for his curiosity and attentiveness, Phil has a good grasp of his surroundings and is able to read subtle cues from the older children, particularly Emma. He deeply trusts Emma and respects her guidance, believing in her plans without hesitation. Phil’s cheerful personality and caring nature make him well-liked by both his peers and caretakers, and he often looks out for the younger orphans.

Relationships

Emma

Phil greatly admires and trusts Emma, looking up to her as a role model. Their bond is strong, and Phil’s willingness to take on the responsibility of leading the younger children stems from his deep respect for her. Emma, in turn, values Phil’s wisdom and resilience, confident in his ability to handle the situation.

Sherry

Phil and Sherry share a close friendship and are often seen playing together. Their companionship provides Phil with a sense of normalcy and support amidst the challenges he faces.

Younger Orphans

Phil is a dependable figure for the younger children, who find comfort in his care and guidance. His nurturing and protective instincts make him a natural caretaker.

Post-Escape Goals

While the older children pursue freedom outside of the orphanage, Phil’s role is to protect the younger ones and wait for their eventual rescue. His focus remains on supporting his friends and keeping them safe in the new plantation, all while maintaining his belief in Emma’s promise.

Trivia and Insights

  • Wise Beyond His Years: Phil’s maturity and insight make him stand out among his peers, with an understanding that seems advanced for his age.
  • Nickname: Known affectionately as “Little Phil” among the older orphans, he is often treated with a mix of respect and endearment.
  • Symbol of Hope: Phil’s presence represents hope and resilience for the orphaned children left behind. His trust in Emma and determination to wait for their return embody the faith and strength needed to endure hardship.

Phil’s character demonstrates that strength and courage can come in all sizes. His quiet bravery and maturity make him an integral part of the orphans’ journey, embodying the promise of a brighter future that the children fight so hard to attain.