Question

According to Neil Smelser’s value-added theory of collective behavior, which of the following are factors that may contribute to the occurrence and possible outcome of a collective action.
A. The structure of society disadvantages one group over another.
B. One singular event may be a spark to mobilize people into action.
C. Leaders help to organize large groups of people.
D. All of the above.

Answer 1

Answer:

D. All of the above.

Explanation: The value-added-theory was formed by Neil Smelser. He identified some factors which must be true for collective behavior calling for social change to occur. They are:

Structural conduciveness is similar to another factor, social control. These indicate the environment and the type of control the authority has over the public. For example, in authoritarian countries, people may not have the right to gather and protest.

Structural strain: this is when the public recognizes a problem and understands that the government will not address it. The other factors are generalized beliefs, precipitating factors or a spark to ignite action and the act of mobilizing the public into action.

All the options can therefore contribute to collective behavior.