What essential idea does the theory of convergence build upon?

The theory of convergence primarily focuses on the idea that societies evolve and become more similar over time due to various influences, particularly economic and technological factors. This concept is essential in understanding how different societies, regardless of their starting points, can develop comparable structures and functions as they adapt to common economic pressures and innovations.

In the context of this theory, linear evolution suggests that as economies advance—whether through industrialization, modernization, or technological change—societal structures, including social norms, family arrangements, and institutions, will also shift in similar ways. Thus, this option aligns with the fundamental notion of convergence by emphasizing a trajectory of development influenced significantly by economic changes.

While the other options relate to important sociological concepts, they do not encapsulate the overarching premise of convergence as effectively as the selected answer. Transformations in family structures, the necessity of extended families, and impacts of globalization speak to specific aspects or outcomes of social change but do not capture the theory’s focus on the similarities that emerge across societies due to shared experiences and influences.