2. Introduction
Emile Durkheim made a distinction between rural and urban
societies, but he focused on social solidarity. He believed that
that a society’s social solidarity was based on its level of division
of labor.
3. Key Terms
Social Solidarity- the social bonds developed by individuals to their
society. (pg. 15)
Mechanical Solidarity- characterized by tradition, unity, consensus of
norms and values, and strong informal pressure to conform.
Organic Solidarity- characterized by a highly sophisticated division of
labor that makes individuals interdependent with one another.
4. Mechanical Solidarity
Predominately rural
societies
Very little division of labor
Solidarity through likeness
Organic Solidarity
Highly diverse urban areas
Complex division of labor
Solidarity through difference
5. In Conclusion….
Durkheim’s ideas provided theoretical foundation for urban and
rural sociology in the U.S., and focused on differences between rural
communities and urban areas and how these disparities affected
basic social structure, institutions, and interaction.
6. Applying the Concept
Mechanical Solidarity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M58ofEgo0sQ
Organic Solidarity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QshF2FhW7cg
7. Discussion Question
Do you agree with Durkheim’s theory on the differences between
mechanical and organic solidarity?