Question

According to Peter Blau, there is _______ price in social exchange but only _____ exchange ratio between two social benefits, because personal considerations and social norms influence the process of _____.

• A. an exact equilibrium, an approximate, social exchange
• B. no exact equilibrium, an equal, social exchange
• C. no exact equilibrium, an approximate, social exchange
• D. no exact equilibrium, an approximate, social relationships

Hint:

In social exchange theory, the balance of costs and benefits is approximate rather than fixed due to the influence of social norms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Peter Blau’s theory of social exchange.
Peter Blau’s social exchange theory suggests that in social interactions, individuals weigh the costs and benefits of their relationships. However, due to personal considerations and the influence of social norms, the exchange process does not result in an exact or fixed price. Instead, the exchange is approximate, with individuals receiving benefits based on their perceived social norms and expectations.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Incorrect, while the exchange is approximate, the term "exact equilibrium" does not apply in Blau’s theory as he discusses the approximation in social exchange.
- (B) Incorrect, although Blau talks about approximations, the exchange is not about equal social benefits.
- (C) Correct, Blau asserts that there is no exact equilibrium, and the exchange is approximate, based on the dynamic nature of social exchanges.
- (D) Incorrect, the term "social relationships" is not the focus in Blau’s work in this context; he emphasizes social exchange.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) no exact equilibrium, an approximate, social exchange.