Characteristics of Urban Society
The following are the characteristics of urban areas:
1. Dense Settlement Pattern: In urban societies, houses are constructed contiguous to each other due to a shortage of land. Millions of populations reside within a few kilometres of the area, showing a high population density.
2. Palatial Houses: Houses are made using brick, stone, marble and other modern infrastructure. Many palatial houses can be seen in these societies costing millions of rupees.
3. Urban Facilities: Urban facilities like electricity, gas, telephone, drinking water system, mobile phones, fax, internet, road networks, airports, shopping malls and commercial centres etc., are available in urban society.
4. Formal Social Interaction: Interaction among the members of society is generally of a formal type. Secondary groups and organizations are important and play an important role in the need fulfillment.
5. Formal Group Life: Group life in this society is also of a formal type. The formation of a group is based on the need and common interests. Members get close to each other to fulfill their needs.
6. Division of Labor: Very clear and complex division of labour is found in every walk of life. People are trained for their job and functions according to the needs of the people. Shortage of houses due to the shortage of land and population pressure, there is always a shortage of houses for the people of this society.
7. Social Institutions and Social Organizations: Basic social institutions and their working organizations are found fulfilling the very needs of the people.
8. Social Change: A high rate of social change is found. People of this society appreciate social change and are prone to adopt it rapidly.
9. Anonymity: Due to high population pressure, fast life, and social differentiation, a high degree of anonymity is found to cause crime and violence.
10. High Standard of Living: Due to the availability of civic facilities, industry and business activities, a high standard of living is found compared with rural society.
Urban societies have dense settlements, modern infrastructure, formal social interactions, clear labour division, and advanced facilities. These factors accelerate social change but also create anonymity and challenges like crime and violence.
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