Quantum Identity Theory: A New Framework for Understanding Social Identity in Prosocial Behavior

This paper introduces Quantum Identity Theory (QIT), a novel framework for analyzing social identity in the context of prosocial behavior, drawing on concepts from quantum mechanics, such as superposition and the observer effect. QIT conceptualizes identity as fluid, contingent on interactions, and capable of existing in multiple potential roles, which only “collapse” into distinct forms when observed by others, highlighting the relational nature of identity formation. This challenges traditional views of identity as stable or pre-defined, aligning more closely with interactional perspectives and extending the work of Goffman’s dramaturgical approach and Cooley’s "looking-glass self." In prosocial contexts, QIT suggests that group membership, social norms, and interpersonal interactions actively shape individual decisions to cooperate or engage in altruistic behavior. Rather than being driven purely by internal motivations or static identity categories, an individual’s sense of self—and thus their inclination toward prosocial actions—emerges through social observation. As interactions unfold, the individual’s identity "collapses" from a state of multiple possible roles into specific behaviors that align with the expectations of their observed social environment. This process helps explain the variability in prosocial behavior across different situations, as actions reflect the identities activated by context-specific norms and social expectations. By reframing identity as a dynamic construct shaped by social networks and observation, QIT bridges gaps left by Rational Choice Theory, offering a more nuanced understanding of how identity influences cooperative behavior. The model has practical implications for fields such as organizational behavior, counseling, and social policy, suggesting that fostering prosocial engagement requires attention to the social processes that continuously redefine individual identities.