ABSTRACT
This chapter examines some prominent conceptualizations of “determinants of behavior” and test them to see how far they can provide a satisfactory explanation. It develops a decision-making framework to show the roles rules play in the dynamics of conflict and its resolution. Expectations are demands for rule-governed behavior in accordance with a commonly accepted norm, and roles are stabilized bundles of expectations that define the relationship of role bearers to given objects. Attempt to find determinants of behavior in the explanation of social order or disorder is the “theory of action” that explains action in terms of the actor’s value orientations and norms. Norms thus limit individual goal maximization, differentiate situations for action, mediate a cultural tradition, serve as indicators for sanctions, in short they are points of reference towards which action is oriented. “Social action” comes about when “ego” and “alter” have the same image of the rules applicable in a given situation.
