Society needs and activities for survival

Society is an organised group of people living together in a defined area, bound by common culture, relations, rules and institutions, who depend on each other to meet their needs. Sociologists describe it as "a web of social relationships".

Fundamental needs / activities for survival

Every society, whether small tribal or modern, must organise the following to survive.

1. Production, distribution and consumption of goods and services: food, clothing, shelter, water and energy must be produced and shared (economy).
2. Reproduction and replacement of members: family and marriage systems continue the population and care for children.
3. Socialisation and education: new members learn language, values, norms and skills so that culture passes to the next generation.
4. Maintenance of order and justice: rules, laws, police and courts control conflict and protect life and property (political and legal system).
5. Defence and security: protection from external attack and internal threats.
6. Health and care: protection against disease, care for the old, sick and disabled.
7. Communication and shared meaning: language, media and symbols for exchange of ideas.
8. Social control and moral/religious beliefs: religion and ethics give purpose, unity and discipline.
9. Infrastructure and technology: shelter, transport and tools to use the environment.

If any of these functions fails for long, the society becomes unstable. Engineers contribute directly to production, shelter, communication, energy and safety needs.