Final answer:
Social structures connecting individuals or units through interdependence are known as social networks. They cover a spectrum of formal and informal organizations and are integral to societal organization, functioning based on interconnectivity and power distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social structures of individuals or social units that are connected to each other through one or more forms of interdependence are known as social networks. These structures help to organize society as a whole and can manifest in various forms including material culture, practices, and ideas, such as the rules and procedures of meetings. Institutions are examples of social structures that have a defined structure apparent to both members and non-members, with three main elements indicating how they function within society.
Forms of social organization, such as bands, tribes, chiefdoms, and states, reflect different levels of power distribution and centralization. Functionalist theory views society as a system of interdependent, inherently connected parts that operate cooperatively. Functionalism suggests that societal power and structure are predicated on cooperation, whereas conflict theory views social structures as the result of competing group interests. Formal organizations like schools and governments are examples of bureaucratized social structures that play a significant role in modern life.