One possible sociological research question that investigates the relationship between two social facts is:
How does the division of labor affect the suicide rates in different societies?
This question is based on the concepts of social facts proposed by Emile Durkheim, who defined them as ways of acting, feeling, or thinking that are external and coercive to individuals¹. According to Durkheim, social facts can be classified into material and non-material types². Material social facts are observable and institutionalized phenomena, such as legal systems, currency, or architecture. Non-material social facts are unobservable and cultural phenomena, such as beliefs, morals, or norms².
The division of labor is an example of a material social fact that refers to the specialization and interdependence of tasks in a society². Durkheim argued that the division of labor affects the type and degree of social solidarity, or the cohesion and integration of a society². He distinguished between two forms of social solidarity: mechanical and organic. Mechanical solidarity is based on the similarity and homogeneity of individuals, who share a common collective consciousness and moral values. Organic solidarity is based on the difference and heterogeneity of individuals, who have a weaker collective consciousness and more individual autonomy².
Suicide rates are an example of a non-material social fact that reflect the level and quality of social integration and regulation in a society¹. Durkheim identified four types of suicide: egoistic, altruistic, anomic, and fatalistic. Egoistic suicide results from the lack of integration of individuals into society, leading to a sense of isolation and meaninglessness. Altruistic suicide results from the excessive integration of individuals into society, leading to a loss of self and sacrifice for a higher cause. Anomic suicide results from the lack of regulation of individuals by society, leading to a state of normlessness and instability. Fatalistic suicide results from the excessive regulation of individuals by society, leading to a state of oppression and hopelessness¹.
Therefore, by asking how the division of labor affects the suicide rates in different societies, one can explore the relationship between two social facts that have implications for the structure and function of society. This question can be answered by using quantitative methods, such as statistical analysis or comparative-historical analysis, to examine the correlation and causation between the variables. Alternatively, one can use qualitative methods, such as ethnography or discourse analysis, to examine the meanings and interpretations that individuals attach to their social situations.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 9/12/2023
(1) 10 Social Fact Examples (Material & Non-Material) - Durkheim.
https://helpfulprofessor.com/social-fact-examples/.
(2) Social Facts Definition & Explanation | Sociology Plus.
https://sociology.plus/glossary/social-fact/.
(3) social fact definition | Open Education Sociology Dictionary.
https://sociologydictionary.org/social-fact/.
Quick Reply
