Compare and contrast Durkheim's classifications of society to the typology devel

Durkheim classified his societies as being united by mechanical solidarity or organic solidarity. Tönnies' terms for the same relationships were Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft. Elements of mechanical solidarity include a shared consciousness and the unity that people feel as a result of performing the same or similar tasks. This includes the values and general orientations toward life that we share with other members of our family, members of our religious group, friends, and neighbors. The organic society is one of interdependence that results from the division of labor and people depending upon one another to fulfill their jobs. Organic solidarity includes the highly specialized preparation for different types of work by members of society. Although Tönnies' descriptions of society are not identical to Durkheim's, they are very similar. The Gemeinschaft society is based on intimacy and close relationships, resembling Durkheim's mechanical solidarity. The Gesellschaft community is dominated by impersonal relationships  and individual accomplishments, sharing many of the qualities of organic solidarity.