Only connect? A sceptical view of the benefits of adopting a connectionist approach to studying human social behaviour

Journal/Book: Psychol Health. 1996; 11: C/O Stbs Ltd, PO Box 90, Reading, Berks, England RG1 8JL. Harwood Acad Publ GmbH. 619-622.

Abstract: This paper is a response to Eiser's (1996) call for a unifying theoretical perspective that would bridge the gap between 'individualistic and 'social' approaches to studying human social behaviour in general, and health behaviour in particular. While agreeing with Eiser's premise that it makes no sense to study cognition, affect, and behaviour independently of social context, the present paper takes issue with certain features of his argument that a connectionist approach provides the needed unifying theoretical framework. It is suggested that if connectionism can describe the psychological processes underlying social behavior better than non-connectionist theories, this would provide more compelling evidence of its value than claims that it affords new theoretical insights.

Note: Article Manstead ASR, Univ Amsterdam, Dept Social Psychol, Roetersstr 15, NL-1018 Wb Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS

Keyword(s): attitudes; attitude-behaviour relationship; risk perception; person-situation interaction; connectionism

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