Citation

Park RE. Am. J. Sociol. 1927; 32(5): 733-741.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1927, University of Chicago Press)

DOI

10.1086/214235

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Studies of animal behavior emphasize the act, i.e., the behavior, of the organism as a whole, as over against the "response" to stimulation of some single segment of the organism-the reflex. Action involves new adjustment, co-ordination, and integration of the physiological organism. In the evolution of the organism the act is primary, structure secondary. The same logic may be applied to the description of society and of social institutions. Collective action is first. Action patterns once established become social structure. The social group behaves like an organism. Institutions are the product of collective action. The individual, on the other hand, in so far as his behavior is controlled by custom and convention, is a product of society, of the individual's interpretation of his role, and so, indirectly, of collective action. Society is not a mere aggregate of individuals, but such an aggregate as is capable of corporate action.