Final answer:
Social changes are the influences that cause shifts in a society's cultural norms, attitudes, and lifestyles. They can result from various factors, including technological advancements and globalization, and are studied by sociologists through the lens of social facts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The influences in a society and its culture(s) that bring about changes in attitudes, beliefs, norms, customs, and lifestyles are known as social changes. These changes can occur due to a variety of factors such as technological advancements, shifts in social institutions, demographic changes, and environmental factors. Sociologists often study social facts, including laws, values, religious beliefs, and customs, to understand these changes.
Cultural change can happen through invention or discovery, leading to new ideas and ways of thinking. For example, technology plays a key role in the spread of both material and nonmaterial culture, contributing to globalization and potentially leading to cultural lag. Overall, the dynamic nature of culture means that societal norms and values are continually evolving in response to various influences.