Technological Factors in Social Change
- Technology transforms society by changing the environment, prompting people to adapt.
- Mechanization has restructured the economic system and devalued old social structures and ideologies.
- Technological inventions (electricity, steam, petrol engines, etc.) affect transport, communication, production, and daily life.
- Even family and marriage institutions are influenced by technological advancements.
- A change in technology causes changes in customs, institutions, labor division, specialization, and speed of life.
Changes in Production Technology
- Shift from domestic work to factory jobs has empowered women economically and socially.
- New agricultural tools and chemicals have boosted production and raised rural living standards.
- Fewer laborers needed in agriculture led to migration to cities for jobs.
Changes in Communication
- Traditional communication methods are being replaced by modern technology.
- This improves interpersonal understanding across groups and enhances education, politics, trade, and entertainment.
- ICT tools (like mobile and internet) modernize rural farming and information access.
Changes in Transportation
- Improved transport systems enable faster movement of people and goods.
- Farmers can now reach markets faster, especially with perishable products.
- It strengthens the link between rural production and urban markets.
Derivative Social Effects
- Technology has continuous and deepening influence on society.
- Example: Cultivator use reduces labor time but also causes unemployment among farm workers.
- Rural rich-poor gap widens, as not all farmers can afford modern tools.
- Technological change is not always a boon; its use must be balanced and welfare-focused.