Final answer:
Division of labor refers to a system where different tasks are divided among different people or groups, improving efficiency and productivity. It is a fundamental economic principle observed in assembly lines and has played a vital role in societal development throughout history.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept described here is known as division of labor, which is central to the study of economics, a subfield of Social Studies. It refers to the allocation of different tasks to different people or groups in an effort to improve efficiency and productivity. This principle is a key component in industrial processes, such as those seen on an assembly line, where each worker focuses on a specific task. Over history, the division of labor has contributed to the developmental strides in various civilizations, including those in ancient Mesopotamia, where society saw a wide array of specialized professions such as leather workers, cabinet-makers, scribes, and priests, leading to sophisticated and stratified social structures.
Examples of division of labor can be observed in various settings, from factories to complex societal organizational structures. This organizational principle allows people to focus on specific skill sets, thereby increasing efficiency and contributing to the advancement of the economy and society at large.