A Critical Note on Conceptions of Collective Behavior

Abstract

"Collective behavior" theory has its roots in antidemocratic theorists of nineteenth century Europe, espe cially LeBon. American sociologists have modified but not eliminated these biases, particularly the imputation of "irra tionality" to collective action. Yet evidence suggests that rioters, for instance, are more "rational" than is often sup posed, and that authorities are also capable of "irrationality." In this paper, we critically examine Smelser's significant efforts to organize the field systematically. We argue that Smelser's efforts result in a "systematization" that often confounds rather than clarifies; that his conceptual organization is founded on undemonstrated assertions about the "exaggerated" character of "uninstitutionalized" beliefs and behavior; that his values are unstated or unclear; and that, whatever his values, he tends to drift into a managerial or administrative vision of collective action.