Questions and Answers
A social system is defined as a collection of unrelated items that function independently.
False
Traditional social systems are typically derived from modern industrial practices.
False
Modern social systems are associated with large-scale production and often colonial societies.
True
Social mobility is often hindered by the social structure that exists before individuals are born.
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Individuals and institutions are integral parts of a social system and interact based on shared norms and values.
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People in traditional societies often live in nuclear families.
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In modern societies, social interactions are generally profound and long-lasting.
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Traditional societies are typically characterized by a collective ownership of resources.
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Modern societies are known for their significant rejection of new ideas.
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Members of traditional societies engage frequently in formal work contracts.
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Study Notes
General Objective
- Understanding the relationship between different social systems and health.
Specific Objectives
- Define social system and its characteristics.
- Identify two types of social systems.
- Compare modern and traditional social systems.
- Explore factors affecting societal health.
Definition of Social System
- Defined as an interacting or interdependent group forming a unified whole.
- Arranged social interactions based on shared norms and values.
- Comprises individuals, groups, and institutions (government, education, religion).
Types of Social Systems
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Traditional Social Systems
- Small-scale societies based on indigenous cultural practices.
- Characteristics include extended families and deep local interdependence.
- Resistant to new ideas, high rural living prevalence.
- Low education levels with limited social mobility.
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Modern Social Systems
- Associated with industrial modes of production and colonial societies.
- Characterized by nuclear families and urban living.
- High levels of specialization and division of labor.
- Production for profit, with complex resource management.
Characteristics of Traditional Society
- Extended family structures and organic solidarity.
- Stability in cultural practices, often resistant to change.
- Simple labor division based on age and gender.
- Emphasis on collective ownership and exchanges for prestige.
- Predominantly rural, less industrial interaction results in lower education levels.
- Transport relies on human and animal energy; diet is limited yet nutritious.
Characteristics of Modern Society
- Predominantly nuclear families within urban settings.
- Superficial social interactions due to individual busyness.
- Openness to new ideas and high population concentration in cities.
- Reliance on others’ specialized skills and contractual work for economic activities.
- Wealth and resource distribution tends to be inequitable.
Factors Impacting Society’s Health
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Social-Economic Status
- Influences access to healthcare; lower-class individuals face barriers.
- Urbanization leads to overcrowded living conditions, increasing disease risk.
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Housing
- Poor housing conditions contribute to the spread of diseases.
- Overcrowding exacerbates the transmission of diseases like cholera.
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Sanitation and Water Supply
- Lack of proper sanitation in urban shanty sectors results in outbreaks.
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Education
- Insufficient educational institutions in crowded areas limits hygiene knowledge.
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Cultural Practices
- Traditional beliefs in certain cultures may hinder health-seeking behavior.
- Certain religious practices may negatively influence health outcomes, e.g., polygamy in Islam.
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Legal Factors
- Legal requirements for medical treatment may delay necessary healthcare.
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Political Factors
- Political stability is essential for the provision of health services; conflict zones lag in health provision.
Purpose of Beliefs, Taboos, and Folklore
- Taboos enforce social order and protect community values.
- Folklore conveys moral health teachings and cultural knowledge.
- Traditional beliefs can adversely affect access to health services if they encourage reliance on supernatural explanations for illness.
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Description
This quiz focuses on understanding various social systems and their impact on health. Students will explore the definitions, characteristics, and types of social systems as well as compare modern and traditional systems. It aims to enhance knowledge of factors affecting societal health.
