In an alternative version of his original experiment,Stanley Milgram had the experimenter leave the room after telling participants that they could deliver whatever level of shock they chose.After the experimenter left the room,a confederate suggested that the participant increase shock by one level each time the learner made a mistake.In this variation,only about 20% (compared to about 65% in the original study)went to the highest shock level.This experimental variation demonstrated the power of _______ in eliciting obedience.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This variation of Stanley Milgram's experiment demonstrates the power of informational social influence, where individuals conform to what they believe are the expectations of others, especially in ambiguous situations or when they are uncertain about the correct course of action. In this case, the absence of the authority figure (the experimenter) and the suggestion by a peer (the confederate) to increase the shock level influenced participants' decisions, highlighting how people look to others for cues on how to behave, particularly when the authority figure is not present to direct their actions.

In an Alternative Version of His Original Experiment,Stanley Milgram Had