Mechanical vs. Organic Solidarity Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What describes a society that shares the norms and values of everyone else?

Diverse Solidarity

Complex Solidarity

Organic Solidarity

Mechanical Solidarity (correct)

Which of the following describes Mechanical Solidarity?

Has a form of simplicity/similarity within society (correct)

Relations between different groups regulated by laws

Wealthier societies largely determined by consumerism

Society is very complex as it is diverse

What is described as unspecialized and original?

Mechanical Solidarity

What describes a society characterized by complexity and diversity?

Organic Solidarity Signup and view all the answers

Organic Solidarity is characterized by which of the following?

A larger population or scale Signup and view all the answers

What is Organic Solidarity described as?

Specialized and authentic Signup and view all the answers

What is referred to as a 'collective conscience' in Mechanical Solidarity?

A shared consciousness that promotes cooperation Signup and view all the answers

In Organic Solidarity, how are relations between different groups and persons regulated?

Through contracts and laws Signup and view all the answers

What defines wealthier societies according to Organic Solidarity?

Consumerism and commercialism Signup and view all the answers

Which type of societal structure is largely determined by subsistence farming?

Mechanical Solidarity Signup and view all the answers

How do people feel connected in Mechanical Solidarity?

They see themselves as the same Signup and view all the answers

In Organic Solidarity, how do individuals relate to each other?

They eventually need each other Signup and view all the answers

What type of societies are defined as modern, industrialized, and high-tech?

Organic Solidarity Signup and view all the answers

What describes traditional, pre-industrial, low-tech societies?

Mechanical Solidarity Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mechanical Solidarity

Characterized by a shared set of norms and values among individuals within a society.
Exhibits simplicity and similarity, reflecting a homogeneous social structure.
Often described as unspecialized and original, highlighting its foundational nature.
Operates on the concept of "collective conscience," where individual members feel a strong internal drive to cooperate.
Commonly found in rural societies where subsistence farming and cottage industries prevail.
Individuals feel a connection through shared identities and experiences, reinforcing social cohesion.

Organic Solidarity

Represents a complex and diverse society, marked by specialization and interdependence.
Typically seen in societies with larger populations, facilitating intricate social connections.
Relies on contractual and legal relations to regulate interactions between different groups and individuals.
Wealthier societies often exhibit characteristics driven by consumerism and commercialism.
Flourishes in modern, industrialized, and high-tech environments, showcasing advanced division of labor.
Individuals are connected through mutual dependencies, indicating their need for one another to function effectively in society.

Description

These flashcards are designed to help you understand the distinctions between mechanical and organic solidarity as outlined by sociologist Émile Durkheim. Each card features key terms and their definitions, aiding in the retention of sociological concepts related to societal structures.