Final answer:
Future orientation is a true measure of how successful a society is at delaying gratification. This concept is key in assessing a society's long-term planning and its impact on economic and social development. Societies with higher future orientation tend to make decisions that foster long-term stability and growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Future orientation is a concept that refers to the extent to which individuals or societies are prepared to delay gratification and prioritize long-term goals over immediate rewards. The assumption that future orientation is a measure of how successful a society is at delaying gratification is indeed true. This concept is related to the ability of a society to make decisions that benefit its long-term stability and prosperity, even when those decisions require sacrifices in the short term. Future orientation can impact various sectors, including economic growth, health, law, and overall societal well-being.
For instance, a society with a high degree of future orientation might invest more in education, infrastructure, and healthcare, recognizing that these investments will pay off in the future despite the immediate costs. Conversely, a society with low future orientation might prioritize short-term gains even if it leads to long-term detriment, such as overexploitation of natural resources or insufficient investment in public services.
Societal success can be assessed by various indicators such as values, crime, financial strength, and mental health. These factors are often studied by sociologists who are interested in the outcomes of a society's level of future orientation.