Society as a System in Sociology

Society as a system in sociology begins to be considered from the earliest stages of the development of scientific thought. The concept of the "social system" was scientifically developed in the modern sense relatively recently, in connection with the emergence of a systematic approach in science.

Definitions of the "system" there are more than 50 in various fields of social sciences. The generalized definition can be formulated as follows. The system is a set of various elements that are in interconnection and form a single whole. At the same time, society as a system in sociology, when new forms are formed, becomes a new element in relation to those already existing. So, the system is something independent, and on the other hand it depends on all the elements entering into it.

Systemic links that exist between elements of society are characterized by a multilevel level. They exist between the individual elements of one system and between the system as a whole and each of its elements separately. Since systems can also include subsystems, this doubles the possible number of connections in them.

Separate subsystems are in a certain subordination among themselves, therefore the study of subsystems makes it possible to disclose the laws of the development of the entire system completely.

Society as a system in sociology is characterized by integrity, only in which its existence is possible. It is characterized by a specific structure (the interconnection of elements), expressing its qualitative certainty.

Structural links in the system of society depend on the location of a certain element, so the development of the structure of society is expressed in the interaction of its basic elements with secondary (example: leader and collective). The development of elements leads to an increase in the number of systemic links. This means that all changes in the structure change the system itself. It, in turn, also affects the structure through the elements, contributing or hindering their development.

Thus, society as a system in sociology has the laws of development . Society is a fundamental category in sociological science. In science, it is understood as a broad community of people, as well as a form of social communication that unites individuals and groups into a certain integrity on the basis of joint activity and common culture. All researchers recognize society as a complex holistic entity and social organism. There is no discrepancy in the opinion that the study and analysis of society require a systematic approach.

So, society is a very complex system, characterized by an internal structure. For example, the structure of the work collective, territorial community (city, village), ethnic community, social class, etc.

Society as a system in sociology is characterized by human essence and nature. It is both a sphere of human activity and its product. The initial element of the system is the personality . People interact with each other, which turns them from separate individuals into a social system.

The concepts of open and closed society stand out. These concepts were introduced by K. Popper to describe the cultural-historical and political systems that were characteristic of different societies at certain stages of development.

Closed society in sociology is a type of society that can be characterized by a static social structure, low mobility, rare innovations, traditional device and ideology. In such a society, most of its members willingly recognize the values that are intended for them. As a rule, these are totalitarian or authoritarian societies.

An open society in sociology is a type of society characterized by a dynamic structure, high mobility, criticism, a desire for innovation, individualism and a pluralistic ideology. In such a society, a person can choose moral and ideological values himself. There is no single state ideology in it, and the constitution guarantees the freedom of the individual. These are democratic societies.