Social Research Glossary A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Home
Citation reference: Harvey, L., 2012-24, Social Research Glossary, Quality Research International, http://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/socialresearch/
This is a dynamic glossary and the author would welcome any e-mail suggestions for additions or amendments.
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Mechanical solidarity
Mechanical solidarity is a term used in Durkheimian analysis to refer to the principle of the division of labour established in 'simple' societies.
In these societies the division of labour is relatively undeveloped, the individual lacks autonomy and self determination. Status is collective, responsibility is collective and a small part of social life is regulated by contract. The remainder is regulated by custom and habit, by a mechanical routine of social life.
The type of social order that is encountered in a primitive society. Durkheim believed that such a society is held together by the fact that there is little division of labor and, as a result, virtually everyone does essentially the same things
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