Abstract
The article analyzes the historical development and theoretical foundations of the process of social change and modernization. Social change refers to a deep transformation in the structure, values, and institutions of society, while modernization refers to the purposeful and focused nature of these changes. Based on the main theoretical concepts in world sociology, the author examines the features of the modernization process in a historical perspective. In particular, special attention is paid to the stages of modernization in Kazakhstan: Soviet industrialization, structural reforms during the years of independence, and changes in the modern digital era. The article analyzes the relationship between social change and modernization, their impact on the political, cultural, and economic spheres of society on a scientific basis. It is also noted that modern research does not have a single path of development, and that each society may have a development direction that corresponds to its historical and cultural characteristics. This opinion has become widely supported by the world scientific community, especially in the context of the intensification of globalization, a multipolar world, and cultural diversity. The experience of Kazakhstan on the path of modernization, its national characteristics, and its connection with global trends are presented. The study is based on domestic and foreign scientific works published in the last decade. This article is intended for specialists and students conducting research in the fields of sociology, history, political science, and cultural studies.