Normative and Utilitarian Particularism: The Impact of Social Structure on Service Commitments

Abstract

Particularistic considerations among professionals have been ascribed to social structural exigencies. A comparison of conventionally employed professionals with practitioners belonging to a communal framework (kibbutz) reveals two distinct forms of particularism: a generally approved Normative Particularism that caters to the legitimate demands of the professional's immediate social environment, and a less accepted Utilitarian Particularism that reflects a concern for clients who can provide greater concrete rewards. Regression analysis shows both forms of particularism to be generated out of direct interactions between practitioner and client, irrespective of social structure. Such dyadic ties may encourage practitioners to meet legitimate normative expectations, but they also provide opportunities for satisfying egoistic motives. In either case, particularistic service commitments are inherent to professional practice, and demonstrate the continuing significance of this work practice in contemporary society.