Hidden Threads by Heddendorf Russell;Vos Matthew; & Matthew Vos

Author:Heddendorf, Russell;Vos, Matthew; & Matthew Vos
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: UPA
Published: 2010-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

A Christian Critique

Exchange theory raises problems of a different sort from those found in earlier theories. The questions it deals with involve individual attitudes toward people and things. Homans’s discussion of the elaboration process, derived from the works of the Italian sociologist Vilfredo Pareto, is vital for Christians. We cannot assume, as we like to do, that we control our attitudes by associating with people like ourselves. Elaboration occurs because of the exchange process itself and not because of the persons involved in the process. This means that Christians may have as much unintentional self-interest as the nonbeliever.

Another important problem for the Christian is the confusion between people and things that may occur in the exchange process. Mauss pointed to the frequent and even necessary occurrence of this tendency in simple societies. Today, we dislike the idea that people may be treated as things or that things may be loved like people. Those with a high view of creation, especially, wince at the thought that the meaning of people and things may be reversed. The abortion issue may provide a clear understanding of the meaning of life. On other issues, however, the distinction may not be as clear.

Since the exchange process is influential in the shaping of human attitudes and actions, Christians cannot take their motives for granted. We cannot assume our best intentions will be fulfilled once we are involved in relationships with others. Each type of exchange must be analyzed for its particular meaning as well as for how it might influence our attitudes and actions.

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