Which sociological paradigm best explains the relationship between social change and social institutions, particularly in the context of how institutions adapt to societal transformations?

The sociological paradigm that best explains the relationship between social change and social institutions is the functionalist perspective. This viewpoint suggests that social institutions, like family, education, and government, play important roles in maintaining stability in society. When society undergoes changes, such as economic shifts or cultural movements, these institutions must adapt to meet new needs and challenges. For example, as more women entered the workforce, educational institutions evolved to provide more flexible learning options to support working parents. This shows how institutions respond to social changes by adjusting their structures and functions, helping society to continue functioning smoothly.