What do sociologists know about cities? Sociologists study both the pros and cons of cities by examining what holds people together, including the common bonds of community and the interdependence...

What do sociologists know about cities? Sociologists study both the pros and cons of cities by examining what holds people together, including the common bonds of community and the interdependence inherent within. Durkheim distinguished between mechanical solidarity, based on connection, and organic solidarity, based on interdependence. Sociologists also look at the difference between urban and rural areas in terms of social networks. In urban groups, family networks often hold less importance while secondary relationships like work and friends become more important. In addition, Georg Simmel found that cities were so overstimulating that people tend to ignore other people and events, which can lead to alienation and its associated problems.