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Social influence can lead to conformity or obedience from "summary" of Social Psychology by John R. Eiser,J. Richard Eiser
Social influence is a powerful force that can shape our behavior in various ways. One of the ways in which social influence manifests is through conformity, where individuals adjust their beliefs or behaviors to align with those of a larger group. This tendency to conform can be attributed to the desire to fit in with others, avoid conflict, or simply because we believe that others have more information or knowledge than we do. Conformity can take different forms, such as compliance, where individuals publicly conform to group norms but privately disagree, or identification, where individuals adopt the beliefs or behaviors of a group to which they aspire to belong. In some cases, conformity can be beneficial, as it helps maintain social harmony and facilitates cooperation within groups. However, it can also have negative consequences when individuals blindly follow the crowd without critically evaluating the information or norms being presented. Another way in which social influence can operate is through obedience, where individuals comply with the directives of authority figures. Obedience is often motivated by the belief that authority figures have legitimate power and expertise, or by the fear of punishment or disapproval. In situations where obedience is expected, individuals may override their own moral judgments and engage in behaviors that they would not otherwise condone. The classic study by Stanley Milgram on obedience to authority sheds light on the power of social influence to compel individuals to act in ways that contradict their own principles. In the experiment, participants were instructed to administer electric shocks to a confederate under the guise of a learning task, despite the confederate's pleas for mercy. The majority of participants complied with the experimenter's commands, illustrating the extent to which social influence can override individual morality.- Social influence can lead individuals to conform to group norms or obey authority figures, sometimes at the expense of their own beliefs or values. Understanding the mechanisms underlying conformity and obedience is crucial for recognizing when and why individuals might be swayed by external influences. By being aware of these processes, we can better navigate social situations and make informed decisions that are consistent with our own principles and convictions.
