Linking morality, altruism, and social solidarity using identity theory

Abstract

Since the purpose of this volume is to show commonalities among three seemingly disparate research areas-morality, altruism, and social solidarity-we attempt to make a unique contribution to this endeavor by discussing how identity theory in social psychology can help unify these ostensibly different research areas. In general, identity theory offers a way for us to see how social actors’ standards and goals in their identity direct their behavior with outcomes that may reverberate beyond the immediate interaction with the wider society. When this theory is applied to “good” standards, behavior, and outcomes, we can see how actors with a strong moral identity direct their behavior inaltruistic ways, resulting in greater social solidarity. This single theory makes it possible to see the connection among three apparently different areas. We develop this argument in this chapter. We make no claims that identity theory is the only theory that can demonstrate a connection among these three areas. Instead, we rely on it as one currently available theory that can help bridge these areas.