I've had discussions with quite a few students in several of my classes who believe that Social Exchange Theory is a good way in which to evaluate romantic relationships. In brief, SET characterizes relationships from an economic perspective in terms of "investment" and "reward". In teaching this theory over the past ten years, it appears to me that people are increasingly evaluating their romantic relationships by this economic model, that is, in terms of "cost" vs. "reward". Is this a viable way to evaluate our most significant relationships. Indeed, as communicators, is it even ethical? Moreover, how does "commitment" play a part in romantic relationships today? What do you think?
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I think that time pressure, real or imagined has resulted in us becoming far more utilitarian in many ways. It our passion for straight forward, in your face grilling, we have forgotten the pleasant subtle complexity of stews. Sometimes in the patient hard work of building relationships the treasure you find is not in the other but in what was rendered from your own soul.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous: Great comment--thanks!
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