Different scholars have defined society in various ways: Anthony Giddings, ‘Society is the union itself, the organization, the sum of formal relations in which associating individuals are bound together. Talcott Parson ‘Society may be defined as the total complex of human relationships in so far as they grow out of action in terms of mean-end relationships intrinsic or symbolic.’ R.T. LaPierre ‘Society refers not to a group of people but to the complex pattern of norms of interaction that arise among and between them’.

1. Society
Concept, Meaning and Definition
Approaches-Individual and Society,
Social Structure of India
Humanities And Built Environment
MAP 114
Submitted to
Ar. Rajni Taneja
Submitted by
Samiya Tazeen
M.Arch (Pedagogy)
1st semester

2. Society
Different scholars have defined society in
various ways:
• Anthony Giddings, ‘Society is the union
itself, the organization, the sum of
formal relations in which associating
individuals are bound together.
• Talcott Parson ‘Society may be defined
as the total complex of human
relationships in so far as they grow out
of action in terms of mean-end
relationships intrinsic or symbolic.’
• R.T. LaPierre ‘Society refers not to a
group of people but to the complex
pattern of norms of interaction that
arise among and between them’.

3. Concept of Society
with respect to Sociology
In sociology, society is defined as
A group of people who live together and share a common culture,
values, and beliefs.
These shared elements bind individuals together and create a sense
of social order.
Societies are dynamic and constantly changing, influenced by
various factors such as technology, politics, and economics.
The term society is derived from the Latin word ‘socius’ which
means ‘association, companionship, togetherness. Thus, society
refers to a group of people living together with shared cultures,
having social interactions and inter-relationships.
In sociology, the term society refers not to a group of people but to
the complete pattern of the norms of interaction that arise among
them. It is a process rather than a thing, motion rather than structure.
The important aspect of society is the system of relationships, the
patterns of norms of interaction by which the members of society
maintain themselves.

4. CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCIETY
Society
Abstract in Nature
Dynamic in Nature
It Consists of People
It is not only a group of persons
It is a complex system
It is based on interdependence
Cooperation and conflict
It is means of social control
It consists of culture
Mutual interaction and awareness
KEY
CHARACTERISTICS
OF
SOCIETY
SHARED CULTURE
SOCIAL STRUCTURE
SOCIAL NORMS AND
ROLES.
SOCIAL CHANGE

5. SOCIAL STRUCTURE
Social structure refers to the organized patterns of relationships and
institutions that shape social interactions and processes. It
encompasses the social hierarchy, roles, and institutions that provide a
framework for social order and stability.
SHARED CULTURE
It give meaning to life within a society. It also includes language,
customs, traditions, art, and forms of expression that are passed down
from generation to generation.
Culture encompasses the shared
values beliefs symbols practices

6. SOCIAL NORMS AND ROLES
• Social norms dictate appropriate behaviour within a society,
• while social roles define the expectations and responsibilities
associated with different positions within the social structure.
Norms and roles provide guidelines for individual behaviour and help
maintain social cohesion.
SOCIAL CHANGE
Societies are dynamic and constantly evolving, influenced by various
factors such as
• technology
• politics
• economics, and
• social movements.
Change can be gradual or rapid, and it can have profound impacts on
the lives of individuals and communities.

7. SOCIOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO STUDYING SOCIETY
SOCIOLOGICAL
APPROACHES
TO
STUDYING
SOCIETY
MACROSOCIOLOGY
MICROSOCIOLOGY
Sociologists employ various approaches to
study society, each providing a unique lens
through which to understand social
phenomena. Two primary approaches are

8. MACROSOCIOLOGY
Macrosociology examines large-scale social structures, institutions, and
processes, such as
• the economy
• the government
• social stratification
It focuses on broad patterns of social organization and examines how
these structures influence the lives of individuals and groups.
Macrosociologists study topics such as:
• Social stratification: Social class, inequality, and social mobility
• Social institutions: The economy, government, education, and family
• Social movements: Collective actions aimed at social change
• Globalization: The interconnectedness of societies and cultures

9. MICROSOCIOLOGY
Microsociology focuses on small-scale social interactions and
processes, such as
• interpersonal relationships
• group dynamics
• social identity formation
It examines how individuals interpret and experience social
phenomena within their immediate social environments.
Microsociologists study topics such as:
• Social interaction: Face-to-face interactions, group dynamics, and
communication
• Social identity: The self and social roles
• Social construction of reality: How individuals and groups create
and maintain social meanings
• Social deviance: Behaviour that violates social norms
In addition to these two broad approaches, various specialized fields
within sociology delve into specific aspects of society, such as gender
dynamics, racial and ethnic relations, cultural patterns, and political
structures.

10. RELATION BETWEEN INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY
The relationship between individuals and
society is a complex and multifaceted one. While
individuals and societies are often seen as separate
entities, they are in fact deeply interconnected and
mutually interdependent.
Individuals shape society
Individuals are the building blocks of society. They are
the ones who create, maintain, and shape the social
structures, institutions, and norms that define a
society. From the way we interact with each other to
the way we organize our economies and governments;
individual actions and choices play a crucial role in
shaping society.
Individuals also shape society through their
innovations, creativity, and contributions to culture.
Artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and social activists
all contribute to the advancement of society and the
improvement of the lives of others.

11. RELATION BETWEEN
INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY
Society shapes individuals
Society provides individuals with the context in
which they grow, develop, and learn. It is
through their interactions with other members
of society that individuals acquire language,
culture, and the values that guide their behavior.
Society also provides individuals with the
opportunities for education, employment, and
social participation that are essential for their
well-being.
However, society can also impose limitations and
constraints on individuals. Social norms,
expectations, and hierarchies can sometimes
stifle individual creativity, autonomy, and
freedom. In some cases, society can even act as
a source of oppression and discrimination.
Understanding the
relationship between
individuals and society is
essential for promoting
social justice, economic
development, and
individual well-being. By
understanding how
individuals and societies
interact, we can develop
policies and practices that
foster positive
relationships between the
two and create a more just
and equitable world

13. SOCIAL STRUCTURE OF SOCIETY OF INDIA IN SOCIOLOGY
Key
Components
of
India's
Social
Structure
CASTE SYSTEM
CLASS STRUCTURE
RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY
•TRIBAL GROUPS
GENDER STRATIFICATION
SOCIAL STRUCTURE OF SOCIETY
OF INDIA IN SOCIOLOGY
The social structure of India is complex
and multifaceted, shaped by a long
history, diverse cultural traditions, and a
rapidly changing society.
Understanding India's social structure is
essential for comprehending the
country's social dynamics, challenges,
and potential for progress.

14. CASTE SYSTEM
The caste system is a hierarchical social order that has been a
defining feature of Indian society for centuries.
It divides society into different groups based on birth, with each
caste carrying varying levels of social status and privileges. While
the caste system has been legally abolished, it continues to exert a
significant influence on Indian society, affecting access to
education, employment, and social opportunities.
CLASS STRUCTURE
India's class structure is based on economic factors such as wealth,
income, and ownership of property.
It overlaps with the caste system, with higher castes generally
occupying higher positions in the class hierarchy. However, class is
also influenced by education, occupation, and social networks.

15. RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY
India is a multi-religious society, with Hinduism as the majority
religion followed by Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and
Jainism. This religious diversity has shaped India's cultural
landscape and contributed to its rich heritage. However, it has
also led to religious conflicts and tensions at times.
• Hinduism is the largest religion and consists of many sub-
groups i.e., Vaishnavas, Shaivites, Shaktas, and Smartas.
• Islam is the second largest religion and includes sub-groups
like Shiaites, Sunnis, Ahmadis, etc.
• Many tribal groups follow animistic and naturistic religions.
• Every religion has diverse beliefs, customs and festivals
associated with it.
• Indian population consists of the Hindus (82.41%), Muslims
(11.6%), Christians (2.32%), Sikhs (1.99%), Buddhists (0.77%)
and Jains (0.41%).

16. TRIBAL GROUPS
India is home to a diverse range of tribal communities, each
with its own unique culture, language, and traditions. These
tribal groups have traditionally lived in isolated areas,
maintaining their distinct identities and practices. However,
they are increasingly facing challenges due to globalization,
development projects, and assimilation pressures.
GENDER STRATIFICATION
Gender inequality remains a significant issue in India, with
women facing discrimination in various aspects of life, including
education, employment, and political participation. Patriarchal
norms and traditions continue to influence gender roles and
expectations, perpetuating gender inequalities.

17. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
India's social structure presents both challenges and opportunities for achieving
social justice and progress. The persistence of caste-based discrimination,
gender inequality, and religious tensions pose significant challenges to creating
an equitable and inclusive society. However, India's rich cultural diversity,
growing middle class, and active civil society provide opportunities for
addressing these challenges and promoting social transformation.
CONCLUSION
Understanding India's social structure is essential for comprehending the
country's complex social dynamics, addressing its challenges, and harnessing its
potential for progress. By promoting social inclusion, empowering marginalized
groups, and fostering a culture of tolerance and respect for diversity, India can
move towards a more just and equitable society.