Social revolution refers to the restructuring of the complete configuration of society including the economic and industrial systems. Over the years, new technologies have immensely contributed to revolution in the social sphere in societies. Notably, four social revolutions have occurred in history as a result of introduction of new types of technologies. The technological improvements that were responsible for these social changes include: the introduction of irrigation machines for plants, the discovery of the plough machine, the discovery of the steam engine, and the discovery of the computer (White, 1964). The introduction of these new technologies impacted greatly on the social aspects of people’s lives.
The introduction of irrigation systems for instance transformed earlier societies immensely. There was increased cultural diffusion in these societies as they struggled to share ideas on the new innovation. The introduction of the plough machine on the other hand, increased efficiency and led to higher yields in the agricultural sector. Consequently, the 18th century discovery of the steam engine resulted to a great revolution on the transport sector in the society. This innovation made it easier to transport people and goods over longer distances than they could previously travel. It therefore encouraged more trade activities in society. Lastly, the discovery of the computer immensely transformed societies. This technological innovation expanded the society’s access to information. This has consequently resulted to changes in trade activities, education systems and communication patterns in society.
Processes of social change according to William Ogburn and their examples
William Ogburn is the founder of the social change theory. According to Ogburn, technology is the principal driver of progress in society but usually interfered by social reactions to it. He therefore posits three processes of social change; invention, discovery and diffusion (Ogburn, 1922). Invention refers to a blend of existing and recognized constituents of culture, or an alteration of one to form a new one. Inventions according to Ogburn result from the function of intellectual ability, demand, and the presence of cultural elements which can be reunited into fresh ideas (Ogburn, 1922). An example of an invention is the aforementioned steam engine.
The second social change process according to Ogburn is discovery. This can be defined as innovative ways of comprehending reality. In this process, society is able to view happenings in absolutely a different way. An example of discovery process is the finding of North America by Columbus. Although the continent existed previously, it is not until Columbus sailed the location that Europeans had knowledge on the same (Ogburn, 1922). Afterwards, this discovery led to an immense historical transformation.
The last process of social change according to Ogburn is diffusion. This refers to the process of spreading innovations from a location to other locations, normally from their original locations. It can also be termed simply as the importation of civilization into a locality (Ogburn, 1922). The spread of new inventions is endorsed by a range of communication and hauling inventions. An example of diffusion is the spread in the utilization of gunpowder which was originally discovered by the Chinese population. The extension of the democracy process across the world is yet another example of the same.
Works cited
Ogburn, W. F. (1922). Social change with respect to culture and original nature. New York:
B.W. Huebsch, Inc.
White, L. T. (1964). Medieval technology and . London: Oxford University Press.
