Final answer:
Émile Durkheim is credited with the perspective that groups serve as foundational elements of society, shaping core aspects such as ideals, beliefs, and values. His sociological work emphasized the importance of collective behavior and the social structure supported by shared values.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual described, who saw groups as seedbeds of society shaping people's ideals, beliefs, values, and social nature, is sociologist Émile Durkheim (1858-1917). Durkheim's work was fundamental in understanding the dynamic between individuals and society. He illuminated how individuals collectively create a social order through their shared beliefs and values. His analysis of religion from a sociological perspective highlighted the community aspect of religion, as it promotes social cohesion, control, and offers support during life's transitions and tragedies. Furthermore, Durkheim's emphasis on collective conscience and the necessary interconnectivity of society's elements contributed significantly to sociological studies.
Durkheim is also known for analyzing the dynamics of small groups and their impact on individual behaviors and society at large. By asserting that studying collective behavior is quite different from studying an individual's actions, he established the foundation for exploring how groups influence social order and ultimately help maintain social stability. Social structure, shared value systems, and social units are paramount in Durkheim's sociological explorations.