Floyd Allport and the Master Problem of Social Psychology

Abstract

Throughout this century social psychology has tended to swing between an individualistic orientation and an emphasis on group processes. Floyd Allport over a span of 50 yr. has wrestled with the problem of the appropriate approach of social psychology to its subject matter, labelling the question “the master problem.” Issues relating to assumptions, methods, and units of observation are discussed, and the development of trends in this dichotomization are traced. Allport's individualistic behaviorism is pitted against other theorists of moderate and opposing opinions. It is argued that Sherif's group-approach anchors the other end of the continuum. Finally an argument is presented that the two theorists are not irreconcilable, and that each position has ultimately led to a similar description of collectivities.