However, depending on the specific context, you could use:
* A community (for a smaller, localized group within society)
* A populace (for the general population)
* A civilization (for a more advanced and complex societal structure)
* A body politic (for the political structure of a society)
* A social fabric (to emphasize the interconnectedness and interdependence of individuals)
Ultimately, the best collective noun will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.