Metatheory and Field Theory in Social Psychology: Relevance or Elegance?

Abstract

Current common confusion about the nature of Lewin's field theory can be resolved by making a distinction between Lewin's psychological metatheory and his specific field theory. This clarification reveals a dilemma for social psychological theory: Either it must abandon that facet of Lewin's metatheory that is the source of theoretical elegance, or it will fail to fulfill the function of social psychology among the social sciences—to further understanding of the interrelationships between the individual and the social environment. Making this fundamental theoretical change will also help social psychology to realize the aspirations for relevance that Lewin had for it. A strategy for the future of social psychological theorizing is suggested, and the strategy is applied illustratively to the study of the social issue of victim blame.