An Analysis of Needham'S Critique of the Homans & Schneider Theory

Dados Bibliográficos

ID2233969
AutoresAllan D Coult (autor correspondente)
Ano1962
Volume18
Fascículo4
Páginas317-335
Data de publicação1962-12-01
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessNão
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoSouthwestern Journal of Anthropology (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 0038-4801 • E-ISSN: 2328-1839
EditoraUniversity of Chicago Press (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1086/soutjanth.18.4.3628986
OpenAlexW2316768289
IdiomaEN
Citações recebidas4
Referências citadas3

Allan D. Coult's article critiques Rodney Needham's assessment of George Homans and David Schneider's theory of social organization. Homans and Schneider proposed a universalistic theory based on the sentiment of liking, arguing that the more individuals interact, the more they will like each other and conform to group norms. Needham criticized this theory, suggesting it was tautological and lacked empirical support. Coult argues that Needham misinterprets Homans and Schneider's theory, particularly their use of the concept of "external system." He clarifies that the theory does not predict universal liking, but rather specifies conditions under which liking is likely to develop. Coult also defends the theory against charges of tautology, emphasizing the distinction between the internal and external systems and the role of empirical testing in refining the theory. He concludes that Needham's critique, while insightful, ultimately fails to invalidate Homans and Schneider's contribution to understanding social structure

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