UNIT 17: Cultural, Social, and Political Change

Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Essential Questions 4
Learning Targets 4
Lesson 1: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Innovation 4
Starting Out 4
Learn about It! 5
History Maker 10
Check Your Understanding 11
Putting Value 12
Lesson 2: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Diffusion 12
Starting Out 12
Learn about It! 13
History Maker 18
Check Your Understanding 19
Putting Value 20
Lesson 3: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change:
Acculturation and Assimilation 20
Starting Out 20
Learn about It! 21
History Maker 25
Check Your Understanding 25
Putting Value 26
Lesson 4: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change:
Social Contradictions and Tensions 27
Starting Out 27
Learn about It! 28

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 History Maker 32
Check Your Understanding 33
Putting Value 34

Real-world Challenge 35
Society and I: Self- Check 37
Wrap Up 37
Bibliography 39
Answers to Check Your Understanding 40
Glossary 41

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GRADE 11/12 |Understanding Culture, Society and Politics

UNIT 17

Cultural, Social, and Political Change

A human being’s personality and behavior changes over time. These changes are greatly
influenced by personal, interpersonal, and environmental experiences that shape a person’s
knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors.

Fig. 1. Individuals in Society

Accessed February 18, 2018. https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-crowd-walking-9816/

Similar to human beings, societies also change. There are many factors that influence societal
change. Culture and politics, along with society, are influenced by dynamic processes that
shape the social environment. Changes in society, culture, and politics are unavoidable
because new forms of culture and knowledge are developed all the time, and these
continuously shape our social interactions, beliefs, and environment.

In this unit, we are going to tackle different forms of social, cultural, and political change and
analyze their effects on individuals and society.

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 Learning Targets
In this unit, you should be able to describe the sources of cultural, social, and political change.

Lesson 1: Sources of Cultural, Social, and

Political Change: Innovation
Are all innovations beneficial to culture, society, and politics?

Starting Out

With a partner, choose a simple object from your current environment. It may be a pencil,
eraser, book, or whatever object you could find in your classroom. Once an object has been
chosen, you and your partner should think of ways of how you could elevate the usefulness of
your product. Create a poster that “advertises” your improved product. Present your output to
the class and try to answer the following questions along the way:

● Why do you think is this product useful?

● What environmental, social, cultural, or personal concerns could this product address?

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 Fig. 2. Conceptualizing ideas
Accessed February 18, 2018. https://www.pexels.com/photo/abstract-blackboard-bulb-chalk-355948/

Learn about It!

The advent of technology has led to many discoveries and advancements that were never
even imagined less than 100 years ago. In this lesson, you will be taught how innovation, as a
technological factor, helps shape society, culture, and politics.

The Meaning of Innovation

An innovation is an idea, translated into tangible output, which is believed to produce good
service and value, and is replicable at a reasonable economic cost. Innovations can be seen as
a method for increasing economic gain by improving production, employment, alliances, and
joint venturing.

When innovating, it is acceptable and normal to take risks. It is in fact believed that
innovations are a by-product of well-calculated risks. These innovations result in the creation

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of new products that attract more consumers.

There are two types of innovation, namely evolutionary innovation and revolutionary
innovation.

1. Evolutionary innovation – brought about by technological advances and repetitive

methods to perfect a certain technological trend.

An example of this was the continuous development of tools used for hunting and
gathering during the earlier human periods. Early humans started developing stone
tools to facilitate hunting and gathering. These early stone tools were eventually
replaced by more advanced, more effective, and sturdier materials such as metals. In a
sense, it could be concluded that the tools we use today have their origins dating back
to the prehistoric period.

2. Revolutionary innovation – newly-introduced innovations which may be disruptive

and risky.

Revolutionary innovations aim to produce new technologies, which are usually

currently unavailable in the market, with the goal of making life even simpler. This type
of innovation exists because of innovators and technologists who believe that available
interventions and ideas are not sufficient to address the problems that they are
supposed to solve. An example of this is the boom of digital photography. Prior to the
digital age, people used film cameras to capture and preserve photographs. The advent
of digitalized photos made it easier and more affordable for people to do the same
activity.
The Importance of Innovation

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Innovations are important factors in societal, cultural, and political change because they help
develop new ways of living. Let us discuss specifically how innovations impact various aspects
of society, culture, and politics.

● Creative innovations and solutions pave the way for fostering sustainable
growth, securing jobs, and increasing competitive abilities. New innovations impact
not only culture and society, but also the economy. The development of new
technology means that new jobs can be made available for the working class, and new
opportunities for business development are also available. Innovating also provides
people with opportunities for skills development and knowledge-building. An example
of this is the growth of the BPO (Business Processing Outsourcing) industry in the
Philippines. The BPO industry in the country is an example of an innovation that
currently provides millions of Filipinos with jobs that could foster personal and
professional growth. Career opportunities are abundant in the industry, and while the
BPO industry is relatively younger compared to banking and finance, education, and
other well-established industries, no development slow-down is expected for the
industry.

● Through innovations, social problems such as education and poverty are

addressed. Innovations aim to address both macro-level and micro-level concerns
through the development and introduction of new methods and ways of living. Prime
examples of this include the development of distance learning, money transfer, and
zero-carbon housing. For instance, the advent of money transfer brought about easier
access to financial resources that were unavailable two decades ago. In the Philippine
setting alone, money transfer businesses continue to grow because our country relies
heavily on OFW remittances that benefit both the OFW families and the government.

● Innovations may lead to an increase in demand for research and development

across various aspects of modern life. Innovation facilitates initiatives for further
studies in various fields. Before the production and promotion of any innovation,
technologists and innovators conduct feasibility studies and market research to ensure

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 the successful launching of their products. For instance, before any commercial product
(e.g. dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent) is produced, launched, and sold to the
public, the research and development teams of companies would determine consumer
standards, needs, and preferences through market research. This makes it easier for
companies to determine the innovations they could develop to make their products a
success.

● The emergence of innovations has led to a global realization that traditional

methods of dealing with societal issues may no longer be applicable in modern
society. As society continues to change and to adapt to modern ways of living, people
also realize that new standards could be developed to make their lifestyle easier.
Similar to how tools were developed from prehistoric societies to more advanced
societies, innovators continuously develop technologies that ease life. For example,
cellular phones in the 1990s are far different from what are available at present. During
earlier times, cellular phones only had text and call features. They were relatively larger
and heavier. Nowadays, there are seemingly endless types of cellular phones available
in the market. Most of them have cameras, gaming, and internet-surfing features,
alongside the usual call and text features. Such developments only imply that
innovations address what people need.

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Applying Innovation to Modern Society, Culture, and Politics

Innovation has a tremendous impact on societies around the world. Specifically, through
information technology, innovation connects people even when they are physically separated.
A well-known by-product of innovation is social media that serves to increase day-to-day
interactions among individuals. Furthermore, technological platforms and other new
innovations act as vehicles to spread information across the globe. Technology spreads

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knowledge and discoveries quickly—bringing in new concepts and ideas that have
socio-cultural and political impact. To a greater extent, innovations continue to shape culture,
society, and politics through technological advances. News is now equally shared through the
internet, alongside the television and radio. Nowadays, you could also use small machines for
even the simplest of tasks (e.g. egg slicing or vegetable peeling). Whatever purpose they wish
to serve, innovations can either cause micro-level or macro-level change.

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 Check Your Understanding

A. Identify each statement if it is true or false.

1. There are two types of innovations, evolutionary and revolutionary.
2. In making innovations, it is fairly acceptable to take risks.
3. As society continues to change and adapt to modern ways of living, people also realize
that new standards could be developed to facilitate an easier lifestyle.
4. Having new innovations impacts not only culture and society but also the economy.
5. Marie Curie is an innovator whose studies paved the way for the development of the
modern natural sciences.

B. How do you picture the world from 30 years ago? In your own perspective, how would you
assess the quality of life back then?
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

C. List five innovations that have emerged over the last decade.
1. __________________________________________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________________________________
4. __________________________________________________________________________________________
5. __________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Putting Value

Ask your parents to name technological, communicative, or electronic tools or gadgets that
used to exist during their younger years. Do not ask them what those things are, only their
names. On your own, try to research on information about the gadgets your parents
mentioned. Try to determine their functions and usefulness in everyday life. After that, do
think of present-day gadgets that are comparable to the old gadgets.

Lesson 2: Sources of Social, Political, and

Cultural Change: Diffusion
How does diffusion affect society, culture, and politics?

Starting Out

One day, you walk into class seeing your classmates having a commotion. Your friend tells you
that the class has become giddy and excited, because school work for the day might be
suspended due to ongoing faculty and administrative meetings. Because of their excitement,
your classmates also told people from other classes about the possible suspension. Soon
enough, the whole senior high school department has taken in the news and prepared to go
home. An hour later, your teacher comes back into class and tells you that classes are not
suspended and would continue as planned. How would you react to such news? How could
this situation help you describe the impact of information-sharing and group behaviors?

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 Fig. 5. Information sharing among members of a group
Accessed February 6, 2018. https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-coffee-meeting-team-7096/

Learn about It!

As a young person, you may be updated about the latest trends in fashion, social media, and
gaming. These modern trends are greatly influential among the youth. It might go unnoticed,
but these do impact you as a person and as a member of society. In this lesson, you will know
how these cultural factors play out in society and how these factors influence you in
decision-making.

The Meaning of Diffusion

Diffusion is the process by which a belief or activity is passed on from one group to another.
The process is facilitated by communication, social media, and other forms of technology, and
can even occur during military conquest, missionary works, and tourism.

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Diffusion can be likened to the spread of gossip or news. Through diffusion, practices from
one culture may reach other cultures, and eventually, these receiving cultures may adapt the
practices as their own. A prominent example of diffusion is the spread of Christianity. Having
started in Israel, the religion spread throughout civilizations and across different time periods
due to the promotion of the bible and Christianity’s ties with political power across historical
periods.

Another example of diffusion is the prominence of ‘Chinatown’, a small makeshift village

representing the Chinese community in many countries all over the world. Chinese culture
and representation has been prominent in various countries, and as such, the influence of
Chinese culture can be seen in the culture and practices of many nations. For instance, the
Philippines has a Chinatown in Binondo, Manila. Our history tells us that Chinese merchants
once resided near the area (now Lawton) and sold imported products or ran opium shops
during the Spanish colonial rule.

Because diffusion involves the spread of culture, it could also be considered as a process of
social change. It is also the process through which innovations are introduced to societies.
Anthropologists believed that modern societies were able to adapt their cultures today
because of diffusion. Anthropologists regard diffusion as an alternative to the theory of
evolution in explaining similarities among culture. According to anthropologist Edward Tylor,
cultures have developed similarities over time because groups have learned to share their
unique practices among each other. In relation to this, Franz Boas also pointed out that
culture sharing is possible especially when two groups are geographically close to one
another.

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While different theories on diffusion have been proposed by both sociologists and
anthropologists, it is important to remember that all theories and definitions have the
following in common:

● Societies that borrow cultural elements from another group will fit those elements in
their own culture.
● Only elements of a foreign culture that fit to the existing culture are usually borrowed.
● Members of the social group usually reject elements that are not compatible to their
cultural practices and standards.
● Cultural elements will be accepted by society only when they are viewed as useful or
beneficial.
● Social groups that borrow cultural practices and elements are more likely to engage in
the same behavior again in the future.

Agents of Diffusion

Diffusion happens among groups through different agents such as technology, globalization,
and language. These drive diffusion within and across cultures.

Agent Definition Example

Technology As in diffusion of innovation, technological
developments pave the way for
distribution of values, cultures, and
practices at a relatively faster pace.
Since the emergence of the
Internet, more and more
people started using
electronic resources than
printed materials.

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 Globalization It is the process of aided technological
interaction and integration between and
among nations.
Language Language may define cultural differences.
Since it is the basic requirement for
communication, the ability to speak and
understand languages is crucial in
facilitating or implementing diffusion.
Global forums are regularly
organized to provide
information on the latest
global trends, and the
policies, practices, and
concerns of each country.
When transmitting a certain
practice from another
country, diffusion happens
faster when people
communicate using a
common language.

An example that shows the role of technology, globalization, and language in diffusion is the
emergence of the foreign music genre in the Philippine setting. Korean pop or Japanese pop
are popular music genres among the Filipino youth nowadays. This is primarily because the
genre, which is already popular in their host countries, has gained even more attention and
following through technology and globalization. Through internet and social media, the youth
have gained access to the world of K-pop and J-pop. They have been introduced to this new
wave of music that is unique and catchy. Despite language barriers between the singers and
the foreign audience, this music genre is still popular. This is proven by various concerts and
shows these artists host all over the world, targeting not only Korean or Japanese audiences,
but also foreign fans. In the Philippines, the K-pop and J-pop wave has clearly affected society
and culture as shown by how media and commercial industries integrate aspects of these
cultures into their business strategies.

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The process of diffusion allows nations to be united in terms of practices and activities.
Nations of varying cultures are given the chance to introduce their cultural identity to the rest
of the world. A sharing of best practices, especially in politics and economics, is widely
expected during diffusion.

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 Check Your Understanding

A. Identify each statement if it is true or false.

1. Societies that borrow cultural elements from another group will fit those elements in
their own culture.
2. Diffusion is facilitated among groups through different agents such as technology,
globalization, and language.
3. Cultural relativism is the process by which a belief or activity is passed on from one
group to another.
4. The process of diffusion allows nations to be united in terms of some practices and
activities.
5. Edward Tylor is the Father of American Anthropology.

B. Compare the three agents of diffusion. How are they similar and different from each other?
Use the diagram below as a guide.

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C. In your perspective, could diffusion lead to negative consequences? Explain your answer.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________

Putting Value

Look at your social media account. Scan through your news feed and identify some
information (activities, videos, posts, articles, etc.) that may have originated from another
country or culture but is also imitated locally. Try to look into and analyze that certain social
media material by incorporating in your analysis the agents of diffusion. Do this to at least two
of your social media accounts.

Lesson 3: Sources of Social, Political, and

Cultural Change: Acculturation and
Assimilation
What do assimilation and acculturation have in common? How do they differ?

Starting Out

Consider two societies: A and B. Life in Society A is characterized by a culture that is integrated
with another culture, Society C. In this sense, daily life in Society A is characterized by
dynamism where different groups of the society share similar cultures but also have their

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unique ways of life. On the other hand, culture in Society B is more homogenous. Since it
started to merge with Society D, life in this society was made totally new, that is, a complete
set of beliefs, values, and norms have been developed alongside social developments. How
does Society A differ from Society B? Which society would you prefer to live in?

Fig. 8. Life in society

Accessed February 19, 2018. https://www.pexels.com/photo/indoor-train-station-with-few-people-waiting-for-the-train-880929/

Learn about It!

Cultural and political differences have developed across societies over long periods of time.
Some are brought about by the integration of one culture to another, while others were
developed by totally adapting a different culture. In this lesson, we will be discussing how
these concepts play a role in social, political, and cultural change.

The Meaning of Assimilation and Acculturation

Acculturation is the process by which a group gradually adapts the culture, processes, and
beliefs of another. It is considered as second-culture learning, wherein a person of one
distinct culture learns another culture without forgetting or abandoning his primary culture
and belief system. In this system, cultural adaptation is usually voluntary.

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To understand this concept better, consider this example: a Filipino bachelor decided to
migrate to the United States where he sees himself becoming a naturalized citizen in 15 years.
While the Filipino bachelor still holds and practices Filipino culture and beliefs, his relocation
to the United States will require him to adapt to the culture, norms, and practices of his new
environment. Nevertheless, the values of being Filipino, such as his food preference, gestures,
or body language could still remain as he lives his life abroad.

Assimilation, on the other hand, is the process by which two cultures are merged together to
become one distinct culture. Beliefs, customs, and practices are combined and act as the
characterizing factors of the newly developed culture.

In the Philippine setting, a distinct example of this is the Spanish colonial period. During this
time, the Spaniards forced pre-colonial Filipinos to shift their religion from Islam or animism
to Roman Catholicism. Note that prior the arrival of the Spaniards, the pre-colonial Filipinos
already had a structured social system and means of worship. The colonizers realized that this
should not be the case, and thus promulgated new cultural standards through which they
could exercise power.

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Both acculturation and assimilation are considered two-way processes. This implies that even
if a culture is forcibly or voluntarily adapted, the minority culture may still influence the
dominant culture, and vice-versa. For instance, during the Spanish colonial period, colonizers
rejected pre-colonial Filipino practices, but their decision-making processes were heavily
affected by indigenous Filipino cultures and practices; for instance, the faster and more
intensive promotion of Catholicism across the country came from the idea that some Filipinos
still practiced Islam and animism in different parts of the country during their rule. This
allowed Spanish colonizers to perceive situations in the perspective of the Filipinos. While little
influence has been made by such practices on the colonizers, the exchange of cultures and
beliefs was still evident.

Similarities and Differences between Assimilation and Acculturation

Both assimilation and acculturation alter cultural, social, and political processes at the
macro-level. This would mean that whenever societies interact and forcibly or voluntarily
adapt cultures, all aspects of social life would be affected. The main difference between
acculturation and assimilation, however, lies in the control the minority culture has over its
cultural adaptation.

In assimilation, the minority cultures are forced to adapt the main culture. Historically, this
practice is evident among all colonized nations. Looking at their history, you will notice how
minority cultures and societies have changed because of assimilation. Even today, traces of
assimilation are evident among cultures that were once colonized nations.

In acculturation, culture-sharing is freer and more adaptive. Both the main and minority
culture are adept and open at sharing cultures through various platforms. Nevertheless, the
main culture stands consistently strong. Minority cultures, then, voluntarily adapt to it.

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In social, political, and cultural changes, the processes of assimilation and acculturation
produces the following effects:

● Assimilation and acculturation both create and develop unique cultures in terms of

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 food, dialect, belief system, or traditions.
● Political interests widen as new cultures and new types of people can be seen as
significant factors in shifting political focus (e.g. a country with a large number of
immigrants may consider creating new laws that cater to the well-being of such people).
● Social interactions become more vast and distinct in such a way that new
communication systems may be developed.

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 Check Your Understanding

A. Identify each statement if it is true or false.

1. Both assimilation and acculturation alter cultural, social, and political processes at the
micro-level.
2. In acculturation, the minority cultures are forced to commit and adapt into the main
culture.
3. In the Philippine setting, a distinct example of acculturation is the Spanish colonial
period.
4. Because of assimilation and acculturation, social interactions become more vast and
distinct in such a way that new communication systems may be developed.
5. Milton Gordon proposed eight stages of assimilation.

B. Look for a historical event that shows the process of acculturation or assimilation. Discuss
your findings below.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

C. List five examples of culture-sharing. Identify each example as assimilation or acculturation.

1. __________________________________________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________________________________
4. __________________________________________________________________________________________
5. __________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Putting Value

Choose one country that you like. Using online sources, try to acquire first-hand information
on customs and practices in your chosen country. Test your imaginative skills by trying to
create an accurate picture of how you respond when you assimilate or acculturate in that
country. Try to create at least one scenario each for assimilation and acculturation.

Lesson 4: Sources of Social, Political, and

Cultural Change: Social Contradictions and
Tensions
What roles do social contradictions and tensions play in shaping culture, society, and politics?

Starting Out

Recall recent current events. Do you remember any conflict that that Philippines has had
within its society or with another country? If yes, what were these conflicts about? Was there
tension among or between the groups? If you were not able to remember any recent current
events, consider any conflict or tension that our country has experienced in its history. How
would you describe this conflict? How did the Philippines move past it?

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 Fig. 9. Conflict in a war-torn area
Accessed February 19, 2018. https://www.pexels.com/photo/action-active-activity-adult-264146/

Learn about It!

Change in various aspects of society may occur due to the interplay of different factors that
affect social relationships, culture, and politics. In this lesson, you will learn how social
contradictions and tension can bring about societal change.

Social Contradictions and Tensions

Social contradictions and tensions are disturbances believed to be against social norms and
standards that are caused by a group of people. As society evolves, numerous issues have
become areas of concern for a large portion of the population. As such, irreconcilable
differences gradually develop into larger societal challenges that need to be addressed and
resolved. If these social conflicts and tensions are not addressed, it is likely that more chaos
and disorganization will occur in society.

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Consider a simple community organization as an example. A community at the barangay-level
needs cooperative and dedicated members to function efficiently. Yet, in some instances,
tensions and conflicts arise among group members due to miscommunication, personality
factors, and different interests or priorities. As such, group members conflict with each other.
Because of this, goals are usually met with difficulty, or at times, not met at all.

Consider the same situation at macro-level where tensions and contradictions are between
larger groups, such as societies, that are fighting for different interests, beliefs, and
perspectives. Chaos and violence may occur among these societies. Some people become
displaced, become victims of war, or maltreated for their cultural qualities and beliefs.
Forms of Social Contradictions and Tensions

Social contradictions and tensions may come in different forms. They may also affect different
aspects of society such as culture and politics. Below are some forms of social contradictions
and tensions.

Social Contradictions
Description
or Tension
Inter-ethnic conflict Caused by conflicts on political,
socio-economic, cultural, or
territorial matters characterized
by uncertainty and particularistic
interests.
Class struggle Groups divided in terms of
socio-economic capabilities
oppose each other in society.
Example
Ethnic violence occurring across
provinces in Indonesia, Sri Lanka,
and India from the late 20th to
early 21st century.
Some land owners gain big profits
from their produce while their

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 Usually, the less-important group
is overpowered by the richer one.
Armed conflict Wars between two conflicting
states or groups brought about by
issues on identity, race, religion,
or competition.
Terrorism A criminal act that threatens the
safety of a vast population of
civilians in order to pursue
extreme goals.
Protests A public demonstration to show
disapproval for a decision made
by certain social institutions.
Gender Issues There is still discrimination among
different genders and roles in
society.
workers, the people who tilled
their soil, earn below minimum.
A number of militant groups
across the world expressed their
desire to form new states that
have their own jurisdiction and
leadership within their home
country.
Bomb threats and attacks have
been recorded in various parts of
the world in the past few months.
Workers from different social
classes take time to protest tax
increases and injustices during
Labor Day.
Some companies pay different
basic rates for men and women
working on the same type of job.

It is important to know that all social contradictions and conflict could only occur when
societies or groups interact with another. Group interaction, however, is a common
phenomenon and no group or society could ever exist without having any interaction.
Nowadays, issues like class struggle, gender issues, and armed conflict are keen interests of
many international organizations such as the United Nations. Such international organizations
pave the way for understanding, resolving, and addressing concerns associated with social
contradictions and conflict. They work with various countries, non-government organizations,
and the private sector to facilitate a more peaceful environment for all societies.

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Impact of Contradictions and Tensions to Society, Culture, and Politics

Note that contradictions and tensions almost always impact society negatively. The following
may occur should contradictions and tensions within society persist:

● More human rights violations and higher crime rates are expected to occur as tensions
arise between conflicting groups.
● Politics would favor one side over another. This, in turn, would create more conflict for
the unfavored class, possibly leading to more oppression and inequality.
● The possibility for unity and cooperation among conflicting states and nations is less
likely. This would greatly impact international relations and trade.

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 Check Your Understanding

A. Identify each statement if it is true or false.

1. All social contradictions and conflict could only occur when societies or groups interact
with another.
2. Groups divided in terms of socio-economic capabilities oppose each other in society.
Usually, the less-important group is overpowered by the richer one.
3. At present, there is still discrimination among different genders and roles in society.
4. Social contradictions and tensions are disturbances believed to be against social norms
and standards and are caused by a group of people.
5. Karl Marx worked closely with fellow philosopher Immanuel Kant.

B. Choose three types of social contradictions and conflict. Compare and contrast.

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C. In the Philippine setting, in what ways are social contradictions and tensions occurring?
Provide examples to support your answer.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________

Putting Value

Choose one setting where you would want to observe. This can be a park, school, church,
mall, or anywhere you can think of. Make sure your chosen place is safe. Observe the
dynamics of the people interacting within that area and note any observation you may have.
Take as much time as you need in observing. Once done, review your notes and try to identify
the conflicts that occurred within that environment.

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 Real-world Challenge
Divide the class into three groups. Read the GRASPS situation below and perform the
following tasks. Make sure to read the rubrics for the activity.

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Criteria Beginning Developing Accomplished Score
(17-20 points)
(0-12 points) (13-16 points)

Content
(Focus on details are clearly
evident; it is clearly related to
the topic.)

Organization
(Logical progression of details;
clear transitions between
ideas.

Conventions
(mechanics, grammar and
usage)

Creativity
(shows resourcefulness in
presentation and activities)

Audience Impact
(interesting presentation to
get the attention of students)

Team Work
(contributions from all
members to the fruition of the
work)

Total Score:

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 Society and I: Self-Check

Check I can…

differentiate between the diffusion and innovation.

explain the similarities and differences between assimilation and acculturation.

discuss the different types of social contradictions and tensions.

apply what I learned to my personal experiences.

Reflect

I find __________________________ the most interesting because ______________________.

I got ____ checks because _______________________________________________________.
I need to improve on _______________________because _____________________________.
I need to practice _________________________ because _____________________________.
I plan to _____________________________________________________________________ .

Wrap Up
● Social, political, and cultural change could only occur when societies or groups interact
with one another.
● Group interaction is a common phenomenon and no group or society could ever go
about without having any interaction.
● Acculturation is usually voluntary, while assimilation is usually forced.
● Innovations could be spread and promulgated through diffusion of cultures.
● Contradictions and tensions almost always impact society negatively.

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 Bibliography

“Armed Conflict.” Amnesty International. Accessed from

https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/armed-conflict/.

“Ethnic conflict.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Accessed from

http://ww.britannica.com/topic/ethnic-conflict.

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http://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-cultural-diffusion.html.

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http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/innovation.html.

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“What is Terrorism?” Terrorism Research. Accessed from http://www.terrorism-research.com/.

Answers to Check Your Understanding

Lesson 1: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Innovation
Part A.
1. True
2. True
3. True
4. True
5. True

Lesson 2: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Diffusion

Part A
1. True
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. True

Lesson 3: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Acculturation and Assimilation
Part A.
1. True
2. True
3. True
4. False
5. False

Lesson 4: Sources of Cultural, Social, and Political Change: Social Contradictions and Tensions
Part A
1. True
2. True
3. True

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 4. True
5. False

Glossary
Acculturation – the process by which a group gradually adapts to the culture, processes, and
beliefs of another
Assimilation - the process by which two cultures are merged together to become one distinct
culture
Diffusion – the process by which a belief or activity is passed on from one group to another
Evolutionary innovation – brought about by technological advances and repetitive methods
to perfect a certain technological trend
Innovation – an idea, translated into a tangible output, which is believed to produce good
service and value, and is replicable at a feasible economic cost
Revolutionary innovation – newly-introduced innovations which may be disruptive and risky
Social contradictions and tensions – disturbances believed to be against social norms and
standards and are caused by a group of people

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