Synthesis of Exchange Theory and Network Theory: Network Theory Extends Theory of Indebtedness

Theories which are sets of related concepts to explain a part of natural or social world, can be considered both tools and output of science. In twentieth century, sociologists recognized clearly multidimensionality of social realities and began synthesizing (classic) theories. This is an open project. This paper is a short step toward a synthesis of exchange and network theories. In the first part, we pay attention to what theory is. In the second part, exchange theory and network theory are reviewed briefly. In the third step, a version of exchange theory called theory of indebtedness will be presented. Finally, employing the key concepts of network analysis, we try to extend theory of indebtedness and develop network theory of indebtedness.