Society and its elements

Important aspects of society is not the structure, it is the system of relationship. The relations which do not have definite associations have been excluded from the definitions of society. Society exists only when the members know each other and possess common interest on subjects. The travel in train does not form the society. But when they came to know each other the element of society is created. Thus, the society is a number of like-minded individuals, who know and enjoy their like mindedness and are therefore able to work together for common ends.

DEFINITION

A society is a collection of individuals united by certain relations and modes of behaviour which mark them off others who do not enter into these relations or who differ from them in behaviour.  - Ginsberg

A society may be defined as a group of people who have lived together long enough to become organised and to consider themselves and be considered as a unit more or less distinct from other human units.  - John F.Cuber

Society is a group of people who have lived together long enough, sharing common values and general interests, to be considered as a social unit. Rural societies are found in the rural areas like villages and urban societies in the urban areas like towns, cities, industrial and commercial centres.

Elements of Society

i)     Society means likeness: Likeness is an essential pre-requisite and therefore society means likeness.

ii)           Society also implies difference: If people are all very much like or exactly alike the social relationship becomes very much limited. Family rests upon the biological difference of sex. There are differences in aptitude, interest and capacity. Difference is also necessary for society.

iii)           Inter-dependence: In addition to likeness, inter-dependence is another essential element.

iv)    Cooperation: Without cooperation no society can exist. They cannot have a happy life (e.g.) Family rests of cooperation.

Thus likeness, inter-dependence and cooperation are the essential elements to constitute society. Society is no more an agency for comfort but it is the whole system of society relationship.