Discussion Questions
(1) Durkheim argued that there was a world of social phenomena (social facts) that could not simply be explained way as the end-result of individual psychology. His view was that social facts have their own existence (sui generis) and exert effects on other social facts, as well as on individuals. What do you think about his argument? Are there ways of thinking, acting, and feeling that exist outside of us as individuals, yet constrain us? Give some examples to support your view.
(2) What are some examples of mechanical and organic solidarity that you can draw from contemporary society? To what extent do you think it is possible for both kinds of solidarity to exist simultaneously in the same social group? Give examples to support your view.
(3) Which of the following would Durkheim consider a social fact: (1) the percentage of the U.S. adult population that has earned a college degree, (2) the percentage of the U.S. workforce that is unemployed and looking for work, and/or (3) the number of skyscraper buildings in a downtown metropolitan area? Please give a rationale to support your argument.
