19. Social Changes Part 1

What is social change?

The transformation of culture and social institutions over time.

What are the two types of changes in social change?

• Gradual changes.

• Rapid changes.

Define microchanges and provide examples.

Subtle changes in day-to-day interactions. Examples include shifts in communication styles or trends in social behaviors.

Define macrochanges and provide examples.

Gradual transformations on a broad scale. Examples include changes in economic systems or political structures.

What is cultural lag, as described by William Ogburn?

The delay between changes in social conditions and cultural adjustments.

How did cultural lag appear in the workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The shift to remote work happened quickly, but workplace policies and attitudes about productivity and work-life balance lagged behind.

How has cultural lag appeared in social media?

Social media grew rapidly, but cultural norms and laws regarding privacy and cyberbullying took time to catch up.

What are some characteristics of social change?

• Often uneven.

• Onset and consequences are unforeseen.

• Often creates conflict.

• The direction of change is not random.

What are the key causes of social change?

Invention

Discovery

Cultural diffusion

War and social change

Technological innovation

Demographic changes

Social movements

What are the six key elements of bureaucracy?

• Specialization.

• Hierarchy of offices.

• Rules and regulations.

• Technical competence.

• Impersonality.

• Formal, written communication.

What is bureaucracy?

An organizational model designed to perform tasks efficiently.

What problems with bureaucracy did Max Weber identify?

• Dehumanization: Treating people as parts of a machine.

• Alienation: Disconnection from work or purpose.

• Bureaucratic ritualism: Focusing excessively on rules, undermining organizational goals.

What did Weber believe about rules in bureaucracy?

Rules and regulations should be a “means to an end,” not the “end in themselves.”

What is the concept of "McDonaldization" as described by George Ritzer?

The application of organizational principles from fast-food chains to other sectors of society.

What are the four principles of McDonaldization?

• Efficiency

• Predictability

• Uniformity

• Control

What are some downsides of McDonaldization?

It can lead to dehumanization, loss of creativity, and overly rigid structures in various sectors.

What is meant by “The McDonaldization of everything”?

The widespread adoption of McDonaldization principles in diverse areas like education, healthcare, and retail.