Chapter 20, Problem 1CC-P559

Summary Introduction

Introduction

Social change is the transition over time in the institutions and culture of society. Political leaders strongly influence social change, especially if they lead the nation through a crisis. The shoguns of Japan led a reforestation effort that rebuilt forests all over the country. The emergence of the modern state is the most important factor because it is more efficient than preindustrial governments. Non-governmental organizations like the World Trade Organization exert power over countries to force them to abide by free trade rules.

Explanation of Solution

Answer and explanation

Social change in heavily influenced by politics as it marks shifts in institutions and culture over time. In preindustrial societies, the quality of leadership constitutes a major influence on social change for better or worse. The shoguns of Japan's Tokugawa period realized most of the forests were waning, and led a program of reforestation in response. Today, Japan is 75% covered in forests. Poor leaders, like Kim Jong Un of North Korea, worsen the gap between rich and poor by hoarding resources. The most important political factor is modern state style government because it is more efficient than earlier forms, and can make more progress toward social change. For example, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 changed how African Americans are treated. Non-governmental entities also wield power, as in the World Trade Organization's power to punish countries that thwart free trade.