Class 11 Sociology Short Questions with Answers - Social Change & Social Order in Rural & Urban Society

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Q1. Give meaning of Social Change.
Ans: Social change refers to significant alterations in social relations and interactions within society. It is not just any change, but specifically those that:

• Transform the underlying structure of social systems.
• Affect a large section of society, making the impact both intensive and extensive.
• Can be classified by their sources, nature, or speed.

Q2. Give two definitions of Social Change.

Ans: Definition of Social Change

• According to Kingsley Davis, social change refers to alterations in the social organisation, which includes the structure and function of society.
• Jones defines social change as variations or modifications in any aspect of social processes, patterns, interactions, or organisation.

Q3. What are the factors of social change?
Ans: Factors of social change include various influences that shape society over time. These factors can be grouped as follows:

• Physical factors: The natural environment and ecological conditions can significantly impact social structures.
• Biological factors: Changes in population dynamics, such as birth rates and health, can lead to social shifts.
• Demographic factors: Variations in age, gender, and migration patterns affect societal composition.
• Cultural factors: Evolving beliefs, values, and practices within a society contribute to social change.
• Technological factors: Advances in technology can transform how people live and interact.

Q4. How is social change comparable?
Ans: Social change is often understood by comparing the present state with an earlier state. This comparison highlights the differences between the two, allowing us to see how society has evolved. Here are some key points:

• Social change is comparable because it requires a reference point.
• By examining what has changed, we can better understand the nature of social change.
• Continuity in certain aspects of society provides a backdrop for assessing change.

Q5. What is the relation of environment with social change?
Ans: The environment can lead to rapid social change. Sudden shifts in temperature, volcanic eruptions, floods, or famines can quickly alter relationships within a region. Key points include:

• Natural disasters often cause immediate and significant changes in society.
• These changes can be irreversible and affect many aspects of life.
• The environment plays a crucial role in shaping social dynamics.

In summary, the environment is a vital factor in driving social change.

Q6. What is the relation of technology with social change?
Ans: Technological factors play a crucial role in driving social change. Technology not only alters the material aspects of society but also influences customs, traditions, and institutions. For instance:

• The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century transformed various aspects of life.
• Technological advancements, like the steam engine, enabled large-scale industries to operate continuously.
• Innovations in transport, such as railways and steamships, reshaped economies and social landscapes.
• In India, railways significantly impacted the economy and connectivity.
• The discovery of oil in the Middle East has dramatically altered societies, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Overall, the interplay between technology and the economy has led to significant social transformations, especially in modern times.

Q7. What is Power?
Ans: Power is the ability to influence or control others, often regardless of their own desires. It plays a crucial role in society and can be understood through the following points:

• Power can be physical or based on authority.
• Members of society often feel compelled to follow decisions made by those in power.
• The nature of power is shaped by factors such as social prestige, status, and material resources.

Q8. What is meant by Authority?
Ans: Authority refers to the power that certain individuals or groups hold, which others in society are expected to follow. This concept includes:

• Legitimacy: Authority is considered legitimate when it aligns with accepted norms and rules.
• Defined Domains: Different authorities operate within specific areas. For example, a judge has authority in a courtroom, while a teacher has authority in a classroom.
• Obedience: Members of society must obey authorities as long as they act within their designated roles.
• Informal Authority: Some individuals, like religious leaders or influential scholars, can hold authority without formal recognition.

Q9. What is Rural Society?
Ans: Rural society refers to communities primarily engaged in agriculture and characterised by close-knit relationships. Key features include:

• Smaller population with a sense of homogeneity.
• Strong influence of traditions and religion.
• Informal social control through customs and norms.
• Slower social change compared to urban areas due to established power structures.

In rural settings, personal connections are common, and social institutions like caste and religion play a significant role in daily life.

Q10. What is a Town?
Ans: A town is a geographical area that is larger than a village but smaller than a city. Key characteristics include:

• Population of over 5,000 people.
• Population density of around 400 persons per square kilometre.
• More than 75% of the population engaged in agricultural work.

Towns serve as important centres for commerce and community, often providing services and amenities that are not available in villages.

Q11. Give characteristics of Social Change.
Ans: Characteristics of Social Change

• Universal Nature: Social change occurs in every society and is a continuous process. No society in history has remained unchanged.
• Variable Rate: While social change is universal, its pace varies across different societies.
• Unpredictability: It is difficult to predict social change as social relations are complex and not fixed.
• Multiple Factors: Social change results from various factors, not just one, due to the complexity of society.
• Natural Law: Social change is a fundamental aspect of nature, influenced by forces beyond our control.

Q12. Which important changes have come in Indian society?
Ans: The following are significant changes in Indian society:

• The caste system is diminishing.
• Child marriages have significantly decreased.
• There is an increase in widow marriages.
• Joint families are shifting towards nuclear families.
• The status of women is improving.
• The dowry system is losing its significance.

Q13. Give four characteristics of Evolution.
Ans: Characteristics of Evolution

• Continuous Process: Evolution is an ongoing process where changes occur over time.
• Directionality: It progresses in a specific direction, leading to more complex structures.
• Internal Features: Changes arise from internal characteristics rather than external pressures.
• Simplicity to Complexity: Evolution typically moves from simpler forms to more complex ones.

Q14. How society is disorganized with crimes?
Ans: Society can become disorganized due to crime. Crime disrupts the social structure and legal system, leading to:

• Breakdown of social systems: Repeated criminal activities can weaken the entire social framework.
• Disruption of social relations: As crime increases, relationships within the community can deteriorate.
• Threat to social order: A rise in crime poses a risk to the stability of society.

Q15. State a few causes of crime in the society. 

Ans: Causes of crime in society include:

• Biological factors: Crime can be influenced by heredity.
• Psychological factors: Frustration can lead to aggression, which may result in criminal behaviour.
• Economic factors: Issues like poverty, a large gap between social classes, and unemployment can contribute to crime.
• Geographical factors: Climate and seasonal changes can impact crime rates.
• Socio-cultural factors: A lack of proper education and unstable family environments can increase the likelihood of crime.