What is meant by "cultural lag"?

Cultural lag refers to the time it takes for society’s beliefs, values, and norms to adjust to new material conditions, particularly when new technologies or innovations are introduced. This concept highlights that culture does not always keep pace with changes in technology or society. For instance, while new technologies may be adopted quickly, the societal implications and acceptance of these technologies can take longer to develop.

This adjustment period is essential to understanding how social change occurs, as it demonstrates that while material advancements can happen rapidly, cultural change often requires more time and reflection. Consequently, societal members may experience a period of confusion or conflict as they try to reconcile new realities with existing cultural frameworks.

The other options do not accurately capture this concept. For example, the idea that there is an immediate acceptance of innovative ideas contradicts the essence of cultural lag, which involves a delay rather than instant acceptance. Similarly, while the statement concerning a permanent disconnect suggests a more static relationship than what cultural lag indicates, it fails to acknowledge that cultures can, over time, adapt and change in response to new conditions.