Introduction
Social change refers to the transformations which occur in society, institutions, cultures, and social functions. In most cases, social change is not instant as it occurs gradually over time. Several factors trigger a social change in society; some elements include conflict, culture, demographic change, war, and technological advancement. An effort by the above factors to disrupt society’s status quo marks the first step to a transformation. On the other hand, social norms refer to the unwritten rules which guide the members of a community. The informal rules which the society ascribes form the basis of community. For years, sociologists and anthropologists have thoroughly studied social norms intending to understand social norm dynamics.
Ways to Influence Social Change
There are several ways through which an organization can influence social change in a community. For it to occur, the community members need to be the main drivers. To influence social transformation, one is not required to participate in big programs, even the little gestures of kindness go a long way to make lives better. For an organization to affect the community’s social change, it is advisable to start with small acts of kindness.
Everyone can influence the social transformation movement in society in their small way. Doyne believes that everyone can bring change in society by making small gestures of kindness (Forbes Live, 2018). She was concerned about the well-being of the Himalayan child that she encountered carrying rocks to make a living. Dyne learned that the girl had no home, and she relied on carrying rocks to make ends meet. This prompted her to start a children’s home, which offered her a home and education. Today her organization is wholly owned by the community members in Nepal.
The US Navy can influence social change in society by volunteering in community-based programs such as education for children. They help alleviate the social status of the community members. Further, they influence social transformations in society and can be achieved by establishing procedures that organizations can follow to identify gaps that exist in the community. This approach will assist them in providing successful programs that will alleviate the livelihood of their neighbors.
Conclusively, social change and social norms have a strong relation. The quest to transform society brings about disruptions that prompt a change movement. For a better and empowered community, individuals in the city and organizations need to participate in practices that improve people’s lives. Volunteering and small acts of kindness show a significant gesture towards driving society forward.
References
Forbes Live. (2018). Social Disruptors: Maggie Doyne [Video]. YouTube. Web.