obedience: agency theory Flashcards
what is autonomous state
self-directed, we are able to choose how to behave and take responsibility for
our own actions. We operate in this state if we are alone, or with people that are below/in line
with our own authority.
what is agentic state
we become the ‘agent’ of the authority figure - we believe that we are acting on
their behalf and thus perform actions that go against our own morals. This happens when we are
with someone above our perceived authority status
what is agentic shift
The transition between these two states is called the agentic shift.
what is moral strain
the anxiety that occurs when we are obeying orders from others that harm people or
go against our own morals. This leads to cognitive dissonance, a state of mental conflict (moral
strain is not enough alone to deter us from obedience).
what is the role of socialisation
agency theory suggests that we have an innate potential for obedience,
which implies that everyone has the same capacity. However, obedience is shaped by experiences
such as parenting styles and educational experiences.
