The Logic of Relative Frustration

doi:10.1007/978-1-349-04381-1_5

Paper

The Logic of Relative Frustration

Published 1977 · R. Boudon

UNKNOWN SJR score

30

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1

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Abstract

This text, theoretical in nature, is intended as a contribution to a particular debate. This debate is concerned with the paradox in there being a relation between both inequality and satisfaction and material plenty and satisfaction. In fact classical sociology is full of paradoxical statements of this sort. For Tocqueville greater equality tends to produce envious comparisons: as they become more equal individuals find their inequality harder and harder to bear. C. Wright Mills has also taken up this theme. For Durkheim individual happiness does not increase in direct ratio to the quantity of available goods. The relation between happiness and goods has the form of a reversed U-shaped curve: on this side of and beyond a particular optimum satisfaction decreases. Again, for Tocqueville, dissatisfaction and frustration may grow when each person’s opportunities begin to open out and improve. In Marienthal, Lazarsfeld observes the converse of Tocqueville’s theorem: when an individual’s future is blocked, recriminations against the social system may well be weak. Stouffer’s works show that individuals may well grow more discontented with the social system to which they belong as it offers them what are, on average, better opportunities for success and promotion.

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Key takeawayGreater inequality leads to envious comparisons, while material plenty may increase dissatisfaction, as individuals become more discontented with their social system as opportunities improve.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

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The Logic of Relative Frustration

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