Organic vs. mechanical solidarity (Durkheim)
According to Durkheim, a modern society held together by interdependence among people in highly specialized jobs displays:
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
Mechanical solidarity is cohesion based on similarity and shared beliefs, typical of traditional societies with little division of labor.
B
Anomie is normlessness when social regulation breaks down, often during rapid change.
C
Gemeinschaft is Tönnies' term for community built on personal ties and shared values, closer to mechanical solidarity.
D
Correct. Organic solidarity is cohesion from interdependence created by the division of labor.
TakeawayMechanical: people are alike. Organic: people depend on each other, like organs in a body.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps22.