Difference b/w mechanical and organic solidarity?

Question

Answer

Distinguish between mechanical and organic solidarity :

I. Mechanical Solidarity :

(a) Mechanical solidarity is founded on the similarity of its individual members and is found in societies with small populations. It typically involves a collection of different self-sufficient groups where each person within a particular group is engaged in similar acitivities of functions. As the solidarity or ties between people are based on similarity and personal relationships, such societies are not very tolerant of differences and any violation of the norms of the community attracts harsh punishment.

(b) In other words, mechanical solidarity based societies have repressive laws designed to prevent deviation from community norms. This was because the individual and the community were so tightly integrated that it was feared that any violation of codes of conduct result in the disintegration of the community.

II. Organic Solidarity :

(a) Organic solidarity characterises modern society and is based on the heterogeneity of its members. It is found in societies with large populations, where most social relationships necessarily have to be impersonal. Such a society is based on institutions, and each of its constituent groups or units is not self-sufficient but dependent on other units/groups for their survival. Interdependence is the essence of organic solidarity. It celebrates individuals and allows for their need to be different from each other, and recognises their multiple roles and organic ties.

(b) The laws of modern society are ‘restitutive’ in nature that in modern societies, the law aims to repair or correct the wrong that is done by a criminal act. By contrast, in primitive societies the law sought to punish wrong-doers and enforced a sort of collective revenge for their acts. Inmodern society the individual was given some autonomy, whereas in primitve societies the individual was totally submerged in the collectivity.

Answer

Mechanical solidarity
1. it is found in primitive society
2. it is based on the similarities of it's individual members
3. it is found in societies of less population
4. it is a group of people who are self-sufficient and engaged in similar activities

Organic solidarity
1. it is found in modern society
2. it is based on the heterogenic of it's members
3. it is found in the societies with large population and impersonal relationship
4.the people in this group aren't self-sufficient but depends on others for their survival

Answer

Introduction:
Mechanical and organic solidarity are two concepts that were introduced by the French sociologist Emile Durkheim. These concepts help explain the different types of social cohesion that exist in societies. While mechanical solidarity is characteristic of traditional societies, organic solidarity is more prevalent in modern industrialized societies. This article will delve into the differences between mechanical and organic solidarity.

Mechanical Solidarity:
Mechanical solidarity is based on the similarity and shared values among individuals in a society. In such societies, people have similar beliefs, norms, and customs, which creates a strong sense of social cohesion. Here are some key features of mechanical solidarity:

1. Homogeneity: Mechanical solidarity exists in societies where people share a common culture, language, and traditions. There is a strong sense of sameness among individuals.

2. Collective Consciousness: In mechanical solidarity, individuals have a strong collective consciousness. They share common beliefs, values, and moral codes, which are deeply ingrained in their society.

3. Division of Labor: In traditional societies characterized by mechanical solidarity, the division of labor is minimal. People tend to perform similar tasks and have similar skills. The roles and responsibilities are relatively fixed and determined by tradition.

Organic Solidarity:
Organic solidarity, on the other hand, is based on interdependence and specialization among individuals in a society. In modern societies, social cohesion is maintained through the division of labor and the reliance on one another for different functions. Here are some key features of organic solidarity:

1. Heterogeneity: Unlike mechanical solidarity, organic solidarity exists in societies that are diverse and heterogeneous. Individuals have different roles, occupations, and skills.

2. Individualism: In societies with organic solidarity, there is a greater emphasis on individualism and personal freedom. People have more autonomy and are less bound by traditional norms and collective consciousness.

3. Interdependence: Organic solidarity relies on the interdependence between individuals and the division of labor. Different individuals perform specialized tasks, and their cooperation is necessary for the functioning of society as a whole.

Differences:
Mechanical and organic solidarity differ in several aspects:

1. Basis of Cohesion: Mechanical solidarity is based on similarity and shared values, while organic solidarity is based on interdependence and specialization.

2. Social Structure: Mechanical solidarity is characterized by a simple social structure with minimal division of labor, while organic solidarity is associated with a complex social structure and a high degree of division of labor.

3. Individual Autonomy: Mechanical solidarity restricts individual autonomy as people are bound by tradition and collective consciousness. In contrast, organic solidarity allows for greater individual autonomy and personal freedom.

4. Social Change: Mechanical solidarity is resistant to change as it is rooted in tradition, while organic solidarity is more adaptable to social change and technological advancements.

Conclusion:
In summary, mechanical and organic solidarity represent two different forms of social cohesion. Mechanical solidarity is based on similarity and shared values, while organic solidarity relies on interdependence and specialization. Understanding these concepts helps us comprehend the dynamics of different societies and the factors that contribute to social cohesion.

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