Collective Behavior

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses collective actions, including both collective behavior and social movements, as sociological ideas; the place of collective behavior in warring society; and analyzes current literature on the subject. The paper demonstrates that, although collective behaviors are sometimes irrational and may violate several social norms, they are a very large part of war.

From the Paper:

"The second element of Smelser's theory is that of structural strain. For true collective action to occur there must be various sides of the situation that are in disagreement with one another. In times of war, great stress is felt by most members of society. This added stress makes individuals more likely to act in ways that are not defined by their existing social structure. This brings about social malaise, defined as a feeling of dissatisfaction and unhappiness (Smelser, 1962). It is these feelings of dissatisfaction that give rise to the actions that occur within collective behavior."

More papers on Collective Behavior:

• Analytical Essay # 148672 : "Rise Of Fascism in Germany from a Collective Behavior Standpoint"
• Essay # 84103 : "Collective Behavior and Anti-War"
• Analytical Essay # 136454 : "Collective Behaviour"

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