Social change is driven by three fundamental processes: invention, which is the creation of new cultural elements; discovery, which involves recognizing and understanding something that already exists; and diffusion, which is the spread of cultural traits from one society or group to another. Together, these mechanisms facilitate the continuous evolution of social structures and cultural norms.

Sociologists often identify immigration as a foundational force in shaping Canadian culture. Canada's history of welcoming diverse populations from around the world has created a multicultural society that defines its national identity. While other factors are relevant, the continuous influx of immigrants has been a primary driver in the development of Canada's social, linguistic, and cultural landscape over the past century.

Language is a fundamental component of culture. When new words are added to a language, it reflects shifts in the collective knowledge, values, or technology of a society, thus representing a form of cultural change.

Cultural change is driven by both external and internal factors. Invention refers to the creation of new cultural elements, such as technology or ideas, while discovery involves finding something that already exists but was previously unknown. Together, these processes represent the primary ways a society generates new cultural content from within its own boundaries, leading to evolution and transformation over time.

Language is a core component of culture. When new words are added to a language, it reflects shifts in the knowledge, technology, or social environment of a society. Because language is a symbolic system that represents cultural values and practices, the evolution of vocabulary is categorized as a form of cultural change.

Cultural integration refers to the process where different elements of a culture—such as beliefs, values, norms, and material objects—become harmonized and interdependent. This creates a cohesive social system where changes in one area of culture often necessitate adjustments in others to maintain stability.

Culture shock refers to the feelings of disorientation, anxiety, and psychological stress that an individual experiences when they are suddenly immersed in a new or rapidly changing cultural environment. This phenomenon occurs because the individual's familiar social cues, norms, and expectations are no longer applicable, leading to a sense of confusion and discomfort as they attempt to adapt to the new cultural reality.

Assimilation is a sociological process where minority groups or immigrants gradually lose their distinct cultural traits and adopt the language, values, and behaviors of the dominant group. This model assumes that social cohesion is best achieved through cultural uniformity. It differs from multiculturalism, which encourages the retention of distinct cultural identities within a society, and the melting pot, which suggests a blending of cultures into a new, unique national identity.

Cultural change is largely driven by the process of diffusion, where ideas, values, and practices move from one group or society to another. As people interact and share information, they adopt new ways of thinking and behaving, which gradually alters the existing culture. While conflict and planning can play roles, the continuous exchange and spread of cultural elements are the most consistent drivers of change.

William F. Ogburn is widely recognized for his work on cultural change, specifically his distinction between material culture (physical objects and technology) and non-material culture (ideas, beliefs, and values). He famously introduced the concept of 'cultural lag,' which occurs when the non-material aspects of culture fail to keep pace with rapid advancements in material culture.