To understand the most important characteristics of a society, one must study its major cities.Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In deve

Natural sciences – particularly sociology deals with detailed study of people living in a society. It primarily focuses on the important characteristics of a society with respect to its origins, behaviour, customs and traditions. A few experts believe that one should study major cities to understand the most important characteristics of a society. Although true to a great extent, I believe that rural aspects of a society should also be equally considered.

A major city, because of its magnanimity serves as a single source for diversity. Due to this diversity, society can be divided into different sections based on different study criteria. Such subdivisions can be further studied in depth. Consider for example New York City. Because New York is a major city, it offers rich cultural diversity. People from different ancestry, caste, religion, race reside in a single city. Hence, it can offer diverse characteristics of American society.

Historic studies have often pointed out that all great civilizations of the past have been characterized by major cities. Thus, cultural aspects of a society can be effectively understood by studying such cities. To illustrate, Alexandria reflects ancient Egyptian architecture, and indirectly its culture.

Additionally, every major city happens to be technologically advanced. It is quite likely that a major city happens to be an educational hub. Similarly, major cities in non-agrarian countries are responsible for considerable financial activity. In short, a society’s customs and traditions, intellectual aspect and commerce can be well-understood by studying major cities.

However, focusing entirely on urban aspects to understand a society’s characteristics seems myopic. Equal importance must be given to rural aspects of a society to understand the complete picture.

To conclude, majority of society’s characteristics can be understood by studying its major cities. However, one should also include rural areas – towns and villages to understand rustic customs and traditions.