Behavior, Collective

Theoretical Development

Two primary theoretical paths serve to explain instances of collective behavior. Some theorists have argued that collective behavior can be truly explained only from the perspective that societal strain must exist in order for an instance of collective behavior to occur. Others explain the behavior as a result of a localized mass acting together toward a specific outcome. Following this explanation, protests, rumors, fads, and fashion are also considered types of collective behavior.

Turner and Killian provide an excellent overview of the history and field of collective behavior. They point out three types of collectivities: the crowd, the public, and the social movement. Each of these provides a social setting where collective behavior takes place. Theorists have moved away from the view of collective behavior as pathological and now primarily focus on acts of collective behavior as instances of social change. In their model, they acknowledge emergent norms, feasibility and timeliness, and preexisting groups and networks that are present in order for collective behavior to occur.

Turner and Killian argue that collective behavior is constantly formed and reformed. It may focus on events and individual action in the beginning, but as the process evolves, the meaning of the action changes. Their model takes into account both structural and emotional underpinnings of collective action. Their work continues to provide a quintessential understanding of collective behavior.

Smelser developed another primary model in studies of collective behavior. His model takes into account a series of conditions that need to be present in order for collective action to be defined as such. Based on the concept of social strain, Smelser's argument poses conditions such as a breakdown of social control, structural conduciveness, and a precipitating incident usually occur prior to the emergence of collective behavior.

Social control is often weaker in collectivities because the individual has no ongoing relationship with the collectivity to worry about consequences of their actions.

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