Social Change and Development

Flashcards covering key concepts in social change and development, including definitions and explanations.

Social Change

Refers to the alterations that occur in the social structure, or the pattern of action and interaction in societies.

Identity

The characteristics or qualities that define an individual or group, often subject to change.

Duration

The length of time for which a change will endure.

Magnitude

The size or extent of a change.

Rate

The speed at which a change occurs.

Sources of Social Change

Factors such as technology, ideology, competition, conflict, polity, economy, globalization, and structural strain that drive social change.

Technology

Technological innovations that act as a moving force in social change.

Ideology

A system of ideas and ideals that can either promote stability or contribute to social change.

Competition

Arises from the scarcity of goods and services that are universally desired.

Conflict

A serious disagreement or argument that can lead to attempts to threaten or coerce another party.

Polity

The political organization or structure that governs the distribution of resources and power.

Economy

The system of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services in a society.

Globalization

The process of international integration arising from the exchange of world views, products, ideas, and other aspects of culture.

Social Development

A planned social change designed to promote the well-being of the population as a whole.

Economic Development

Programs and activities aimed at improving the economic diversity, growth, and quality of life in a community.

Economic Growth

An increase in the production of economic goods and services in a specific period compared to a previous period.

Sustainable Development

Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

Participatory Development

An approach where stakeholders influence and control development initiatives and decisions.

Social Sustainability

Focuses on the well-being of people and communities, promoting equity, human rights, and social opportunities.

Economic Sustainability

Conducting economic activities in a manner that preserves and promotes long-term economic well-being.

Environmental Sustainability

Preserving and protecting the natural environment over time, meeting present needs without compromising future resources.

Structural-Functionalist Theory

Views society as a complex system with interdependent parts that work together to promote stability.

Rostow's Modernization Theory

A model depicting how countries progress from underdevelopment to modernity through five stages of economic growth.

Dependency Theory

Suggests that resources flow from poor nations to wealthy nations, perpetuating a cycle of dependence.

Dialectical Materialism

A philosophy of history that views political and social events as driven by material conditions and conflicts.

Neo-Liberalism

An economic philosophy promoting free trade, deregulation, and minimal government intervention in the economy.

Big Push Theory

Suggests that significant investments are necessary to bring about economic development.