Intergroup conflict and social influence: varieties of minority action

Abstract

This chapter focuses on conflict between dominant groups with relatively high power and status (“majorities”) and subordinate groups with relatively low power and status (“minorities”). After briefly summarizing relevant work on minority influence and collective action, we propose a comprehensive three-component model of “minority action,” focusing on intragroup as well as intergroup processes, that analyzes how minorities deal with their inferior position in the social hierarchy. The model identifies four kinds of minorities (nomic, autonomous, pragmatic, anomic) with different Action Goals, depending on their group identification and motivation to prevail. It also posits that minorities attempt to influence two Action Targets (intergroup, intragroup) and that their relationship to the majority changes over three Action Phases (Preparation, Confrontation, Resolution). We use the model to analyze how the four kinds of minorities use social influence to achieve their goals and conclude by identifying aspects of our analysis that warrant elaboration.

Researchers:

• John M. Levine(✝), University of Pittsburgh, Professeur honoris causa SSP UNIL
• Fabrizio Butera, University of Lausanne