What term best describes change that is expected to last indefinitely?

The term that best describes change expected to last indefinitely is "permanent change." This refers to changes that are not intended to revert back to the previous state and are seen as lasting alterations in a system, circumstance, or behavior. Permanent change implies a fundamental shift that alters the baseline, making it unlikely that the conditions will return to what they once were.

In contrast, temporary change indicates a shift that is expected to be short-lived and will revert after a certain period. Social change refers more broadly to shifts in societal norms, values, or cultural practices, which may not necessarily imply permanence. The term 'putative change' is not a widely recognized concept within this context and may not accurately capture the meaning of lasting change. Thus, "permanent change" is the most suitable choice when describing an alteration intended to be enduring.