Cultural contracts theory, introduced by Ronald L. Jackson II in 2002, emerged as a response to ongoing discussions regarding identity negotiation within humanities and social sciences research. Although it may seem logical to assume that this theory was influenced by sociologist Charles W. Mills’s 1997 racial contracts treatise, Jackson was unaware of Mills’s work until approximately three years after formulating cultural contracts theory. Instead, its conceptual foundation lies in Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s 1762 discussion of the social contract, a philosophical and moral essay addressing the implications of national sovereignty and the preservation of social order. Rousseau’s work generated significant debate surrounding themes such as freedom, independence, autonomy, and citizens’ responsibilities to social structures.

Cultural contracts theory aligns with Mills’s ideas in its acknowledgment of and reaction to power imbalances that disrupt interactions, leading to the negotiation of cultural identities. Jackson conceived the contracts metaphor while navigating the process of purchasing a home. He observed parallels between expressing preferences during critical life negotiations, such as buying a house, and managing identity interactions with unfamiliar individuals who are anticipated to act or engage in specific ways. During these exchanges, one’s culture—comprising values, norms, beliefs, and communication styles—becomes evident. Similarly, differences in perspectives, approaches, and orientations are reconciled in such negotiations.

Whether individuals are meeting for the first time or have a longstanding relationship, they must continually adapt by recognizing each other’s cultural context. Like a home-purchase agreement, everyday communication involves “small print,” encompassing concealed elements of a relationship. In identity negotiations, this small print may involve hidden motives but often reflects unspoken insecurities rooted in past experiences. These factors complicate interactions further, especially in intercultural contexts where race, gender, and socioeconomic class play a significant role.

Littlejohn, Stephen W and Karen A.Floss. (2009). Encyclopedia of Communication Theory.USA:SAGE.654

Penanggungjawab naskah :

Gayes Mahestu
Edwina Ayu Kustiawan