¶ … Collective Behavior: Comparisons Theories of Collective Behavior: Emergent-Norm Theory vs. Value-Added Perspective

Collective behavior, in basic terms, could be defined as a voluntary activity in which individuals engage. The behavior in this case is largely non-institutionalized. There are various theories that have been used over time to explain collective behavior. These include the emergent-norm theory, value-added perspective, and assembling perspective. In this text, I concern myself with two of these, i.e. The emergent-norm theory and the value-added perspective.

The emergent-norm theory according to Stolley (2005, p. 186) posits that "new norms develop (emerge) as events happen." The value added perspective, on the other hand, suggests that "people are likely to engage in social movements and other forms of collective behavior when society has certain characteristics" (Crawford and Novak, 2013, p. 455).

It should also be noted that while the emergent-norm...

The latter therefore mainly assumes a functionalist perspective. Essentially, unlike the value-added perspective, the emergent-norm theory does not outline conditions necessary for the occurrence of collective behavior. Instead, it merely claims that individuals will form groups and come up with new guidelines whenever they find themselves in unfamiliar territory. With regard to the value-added perspective, the conditions necessary for collective behavior to take place are identified as "structural conduciveness, structural strain, growth and spread of a generalized belief, precipitating factors, mobilization for action, and the operation of social control" (Crawford and Novak, 2013, p. 455).
It is also important to note that unlike the emergent-norm theory, the value-added perspective seems to view…