The alteration of culture and societies over time is known as what?

• A. Social change
• B. Cultural diffusion
• C. Urbanization
• D. Globalization

Answer: (A)

Social change refers to the alteration of culture and societies over time. It captures shifts in norms, values, institutions, technology, and social practices that happen gradually or after impactful events. While cultural diffusion, urbanization, and globalization can drive or accompany social change, they describe more specific processes. Cultural diffusion is about cultural elements spreading between groups, urbanization focuses on people moving into and forming cities, and globalization concerns the growing interconnectedness across borders. An example of social change is a society broadening legal rights or changing family norms over decades, reflecting how culture and social life evolve overall.