Final answer:
Occupational specialization refers to the division of labor in socially complex societies, where individuals focus on specific tasks or jobs. Examples include specialized occupations in ancient civilizations and modern professions like doctors and teachers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'occupational specialization' refers to the division of labor in a society where individuals perform specific tasks or jobs that contribute to the well-being of the community. It is a characteristic of socially complex societies where people focus on their areas of expertise to increase productivity and efficiency.
In ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, there were various specialized occupations such as leather workers, cabinet-makers, potters, metalworkers, and more. Each occupation had individuals who dedicated their skills to a specific trade, leading to the development of social hierarchies and a range of occupations.
Modern examples of occupational specialization include professions like doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, and farmers. Each profession requires specialized knowledge and skills to perform specific tasks and contribute to society.