Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people when the desire for harmony or conformity in the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. It often leads to individuals suppressing dissenting viewpoints and prioritizing consensus over critical thinking.
Irving Janis coined the term "groupthink" to describe the phenomenon where a group of people make irrational or problematic decisions because of pressures within the group to conform or maintain harmony.
Advantages of community spirit include increased social support, a sense of belonging, and a shared responsibility for collective well-being. However, disadvantages may include groupthink, exclusion of outsiders, and potential for conflict within the community.
Collective rationalization is a psychological phenomenon where a group of people justify or defend irrational or problematic behavior by coming up with reasons or explanations that make it seem logical or acceptable within the group's belief system. This can lead to groupthink and prevent members from critically evaluating their actions.
In "Inherit the Wind," a mob mentality is demonstrated when the town turns against Bert Cates for teaching evolution, leading to his arrest and trial. The townspeople are swayed by emotion and groupthink, resulting in a narrow-minded and oppressive atmosphere. This mob mentality reflects the fear and intolerance present in the community towards differing beliefs.
People may join the majority even when they know it's wrong due to social pressure, fear of missing out, desire for acceptance, or a lack of confidence in their own beliefs. This behavior is known as groupthink and can lead individuals to go along with the crowd rather than speak up for what is right.
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Self-censorship
The team's decision to move forward with a risky plan was a clear example of groupthink, as no one wanted to speak up against the majority opinion.
The cast of Groupthink - 2008 includes: Angela Espinosa as Cynthia Dawes Wendy Rosoff as Pilar Von Rosenzweig
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Groupthink can lead to poor decision-making, lack of critical thinking, conformity pressure, and suppression of alternative viewpoints. It can also result in overconfidence in the group's decisions and a failure to consider all available information. Ultimately, groupthink can hinder creativity and innovation within a group.
Groupthink can be caused by factors such as a desire for harmony or conformity within the group, the pressure to maintain group cohesion, and the tendency to dismiss alternative viewpoints in favor of maintaining group consensus. Groupthink often occurs when there is strong group cohesion, directive leadership, and a lack of diverse perspectives.
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Groupthink
In large groups, groupthink doesn't have a real chance. In smaller groups, groupthink can prevent groups from being creative and brainstorming ideas.