Theories of Social Change Ms. Maharaj George Vanier SS

Rationale  There are many theories that exist that attempt to explain changes in society  Each theory or perspective brings another layer of understanding to the issue of social change  Social change is in itself unpredictable- it can be immediate or pro-longed  It can affect a large population or a small subset within a population

Evolutionary Theory  All societies evolve and become complex over time  The idea of Progress is the foundation for this theory- 2 levels to measure/attain  societies ability to move forward to better living conditions.  Ability to innovate  Change is seen as positive and beneficial rather than negative and disrupting order

Cyclical Theory  Compares society to the “changing of the seasons”– natural progression of highs and lows  Each season has different conditions, has a pinnacle, then gives way to the next season- only to return again  Trends, fashions beliefs are seen as cyclical– they pop up every few years is popularized and then it gives way to something else  This theory believes that the changes in person’s life position (birth, adulthood etc) controls preferences and what’s in

Challenge and Change Theory  Society faces challenges from internal environment and by internal/ external forces aimed at its destruction  Ability to respond to threats determines societies fate.  If a society can respond “successfully” to these attempts at destruction– “great society”  Civilizations are built upon the mistakes of past cultures (intentionally try not to repeat same mistakes)

Functionalist Theory  Many aspects of social life including family structure, religion and division of labour can be understood by social statics and social dynamics  Statics  requirements necessary to maintain social order  Dynamics  factors that determine social change  Functionalists study how society maintains stability  Social institutions are created to maintain stability  Generate norms, roles, social expectations etc.  VIDEO– on blog (Institutions teaching us structure)

Conflict Theory of Change  Concerned with inequities that plague societies  Marx  groups with opposing interests are in conflict- rich and poor always struggling for power  Dahrendorf proposed that with society’s changes comes dis-order/conflict  Command class vs. obey class