It can be extremely difficult to read about or research a topic and not know exactly what it is. The first thing chapter one does is defines social change. The textbook’s definition of social change is “the significant alteration of social structure and cultural patterns through time.” In other words, it’s when there has been a big enough change in society and its actions over time to make an impact. This section also breaks down social structure as the interactions between people and groups that have become predictable.
After explaining specifically what social change is, the chapter then goes into more detail. The next thing that it talks about is the kinds of change. There are five different kinds of change. The first is changes in personnel. This is the change where different individuals with their own unique pasts are constantly moving throughout social structures. Next is change in the way parts of the structure relate. This kind of change deals with the relationship roles, especially those in the family setting. The third kinds of change are changes in the function of the structures. This change is how and what is contributed to society. Although an establishment is created to fulfill one particular need, it may very well adapt to assist with additional needs. Fourth, the next kinds of change are the changes in relationships between different structures. This is how certain organization may adapt over time to fulfill the needs of society at the time. Lastly, there is the emergence of new structures.
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