In sociology, what defines a 'society'?

A society is fundamentally defined as a large social grouping that shares a geographical territory and possesses political authority. This definition encapsulates the idea that a society is not just about culture or social connections but involves a structured community where individuals live in an organized manner under a set of rules and governance.

Geographical territory is crucial since it demarcates spaces where societies exist, allowing for interactions and relationships among individuals within defined boundaries. Political authority indicates that a society typically has a governing body or system, which brings order and structure to the interactions that occur within it.

The other options, while they highlight various aspects of human interaction and social organization, do not capture the holistic nature of a society as effectively. A shared cultural heritage refers more to the traditions and values a group holds, rather than the structural aspects; a collection of diverse communities emphasizes variety without the structural cohesiveness that a society embodies; and a network of families and friends focuses on close personal relationships rather than the broader organizational facets that define a society's functioning.