Group identity processes operate autonomously from objective intergroup conflict

Evidence

This identification with the in-group, however, has been given relatively little prominence in RCT as a theoretical problem in its own right. The development of ingroup identifications is seen in RCT almost as an epiphenomenon of intergroup conflict. As treated by RCT, these identifications are associated with certain patterns of intergroup relations, but the theory does not focus either upon the processes underlying the development and maintenance of group identity nor upon the possibly autonomous effects upon the in-group and intergroup behavior of these “subjective” aspects of group membership. It is our contention that the relative neglect of these processes in RCT is responsible for some inconsistencies between the empirical data and the theory in its “classical” form. In this sense, the theoretical orientation to be outlined here is intended not to replace RCT, but to supplement it in some respects that seem to us essential for an adequate social psychology of intergroup conflict—particularly as the understanding of the psychological aspects of social change cannot be achieved without an appropriate analysis of the social psychology of social conflict. — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 2674

Categorization

• XREF: Tajfel’s move — giving group identity autonomous standing rather than treating it as an epiphenomenon of material conflict — is the core ‘integrative supplement’ the reader sought to background strategic-essentialism theorizing in social identity theory. — connects to: Realistic conflict theory treats group identity as an epiphenomenon, not an autonomous cause — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 2674; Mere division into groups triggers intergroup discrimination even without conflict or self-interest; Intergroup relations begin when people adopt collective rather than personal identity — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice: Fifty Years…, 548 (+4 more)

Broader Connections

• Mere division into groups triggers intergroup discrimination even without conflict or self-interest #corroborates (0.90)
• Realistic conflict theory treats group identity as an epiphenomenon, not an autonomous cause #contradicts (0.85) — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 2674
• Intergroup relations begin when people adopt collective rather than personal identity #expands (0.75) — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice, 548