Stress, threat, and lack of information increase conformity to group norms

Evidence

We are influenced by the judgments, values, and attitudes of our environment. In groups, we tend to go along with the prevailing opinion and behave in conformity. This effect is particularly effective when it is a group we identify with, want to be recognized by, or depend on. Behind this is the desire to be accepted and not excluded. In one’s own place of residence, especially a village, all three factors are at work: one does not want to attract negative attention, does not want to strain relations with neighbors, and, out of solidarity with friends, also supports positions that one might not otherwise hold. The stronger the longing for recognition and belonging, the greater the willingness to adopt the norms and opinions of a group. The willingness to adopt group norms also increases in the face of stress and threat, as well as in the face of a lack of information. — Holm Gero Hümmler, Ulrike Schiesser, Fact and Prejudice, 186

Categorization

• XREF: Connects to the conspiracy-beliefs and information-environment themes in One Square Inch of Silence and Communication as Culture regarding how environment shapes perception and judgment. — connects to: Communication establishes uniformity among men by isolating them — Theodor W. Adorno, Max Horkheimer, Dialectic of Enlightenment, 197; Social norms exercise overwhelming force over even trained observers of behavior — Shoshana Zuboff, The Age of Surveillance Capitalism, 1507; Order-obsession and fear of losing face silence dissent in classrooms — bell hooks, Teaching to Transgress: Education as…, 354 (+3 more)