How does the convergence theory differ from the contagion theory?
A) The convergence theory argues that a crowd influences an individual, while the contagion theory states that individuals affect a crowd.
B) The convergence theory argues that individuals react spontaneously to a situation, while the contagion theory states that individuals develop norms as a situation unfolds.
C) The convergence theory argues that individuals affect a crowd, while the contagion theory states that the crowd influences an individual.
D) The convergence theory argues that crowds consist of dissimilar individuals, while the contagion theory states that crowds consist of like-minded people.
E) The convergence theory argues that social norms shape crowd behavior, while the contagion theory states that crowds are always orderly and focused.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The convergence theory and the contagion theory are two different theories that explain the behavior of crowds. The convergence theory argues that individuals affect a crowd, while the contagion theory states that the crowd influences an individual.
The convergence theory suggests that people who share similar beliefs, values, and attitudes come together in a crowd, which strengthens and reinforces their shared opinions. According to this theory, individuals may be influenced by the behavior and attitudes of the group, but they also have the ability to shape the behavior of the crowd.
In contrast, the contagion theory suggests that individuals in a crowd can lose their sense of individuality and become swept up in the emotions and behaviors of the group. According to this theory, people in a crowd may be more likely to engage in impulsive, emotional, or irrational behavior, simply because others around them are doing the same thing.
Overall, while both theories acknowledge the importance of social influence in crowd behavior, they differ in the direction of influence. The convergence theory emphasizes the role of individual agency and choice, while the contagion theory highlights the power of the group to shape individual behavior.

How Does the Convergence Theory Differ from the Contagion Theory