Overview
- Editors:
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Kenneth J. Gergen
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Department of Psychology, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, USA
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Martin S. Greenberg
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Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
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Richard H. Willis
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Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
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Table of contents (12 chapters)
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Front Matter
Pages i-xviii
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Theoretical Extension
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- Howard L. Fromkin, C. R. Snyder
Pages 57-75
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- Edna B. Foa, Uriel G. Foa
Pages 77-94
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Exchange Theory in Specialized Settings
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Front Matter
Pages 95-101
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- Richard H. Willis, Irene Hanson Frieze
Pages 141-163
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- George Levinger, L. Rowell Huesmann
Pages 165-188
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Critical Analysis
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Front Matter
Pages 189-196
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- Frederic L. Pryor, Nelson H. H. Graburn
Pages 215-237
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Back Matter
Pages 281-306
About this book
INTRODUCTION In developing scientific theory there is perhaps nothing more propi tious than a compelling metaphor. If the metaphor is rich in imagery, complexly differentiated, emotionally evocative, and vitally wedded to the cultural lore, the theory to which it gives rise may enjoy a long and vigorous life. If the metaphor is sufficiently powerful, the theory may even be sustained in independence of systematic empirical support. Role theory is likely to remain prosperous so long as there is a thriving theater; decision theory experienced a dramatic rejuvenation with the development of the electronic computer; and, in spite of its archaic construction, Jungian theory will prevail so long as ancient myths and symbols continue to haunt us (d. Smith, 1978). From this standpoint, the development of social exchange theory is hardly surprising. Ex perience with the marketplace is extensive in society, its images are both complex and richly evocative, its challenges are often exciting and its lessons sometimes painful. It is thus both intellectually and emo tionally invigorating to consider the social arena in all its diversity as an extended market in which each individual seeks to maximize profits. The economic metaphor is hardly new to the social sciences. The recent intellectual roots of contemporary exchange theory can be traced to the works of Claude Levi-Strauss, Marcel Mauss, Karl Marx, and B.
