agency theory Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is obedience?
Obedience is when you follow the orders of someone. It helps you survive and is essential for societal order.
What is agency theory?
Agency theory is when we perceive some people to be a ‘legitimate authorial figure’ and blindly follow them without questioning.
What is an autonomous state?
In an autonomous state, individuals see themselves as responsible and in control of their actions and feel guilt. They are aware of their consequences and are independent of their actions.
What is an agentic state?
In an agentic state, individuals view themselves as agents carrying out the commands of an authority figure, thus relieving themselves of personal responsibility and not feeling guilt.
What is an agentic shift?
An agentic shift is the transition that occurs when an individual recognizes an authority figure, leading them to obey commands that may conflict with their personal morals. Potentially removing their free will.
What is moral strain?
when faced with conflicting urges to obey authority and follow personal conscience, individuals experience moral strain. Obeying our conscience and keep our own self-image as a ‘good person’.
What are some defense mechanisms related to moral strain?
Denial- convincing oneself that harmful actions are not dangerous
Avoidance- avoiding eye contact with authority figures
Degree of involvement- minimising the physical involvement in harmful actions
Helping the learner- attempting to alleviate the situation for those harmed .
What do Milgram’s studies demonstrate?
Milgram’s studies demonstrate how ordinary people can commit heinous acts under the influence of authority, suggesting that obedience is a survival trait that has evolved over time.
What were the findings of Milgram’s 1961 study? (credibility)
showed the agentic shift, white lab coat.
Participants initially felt autonomous but shifted to an agentic state under authority of the researcher in the ‘lab coat’
100% participants went to 300 volts
65% participants went to 450 volts (maximum)
Replicated study variation as ‘ordinary man’: 25% went to 450 volts
What were the findings of Burger’s 2009 study? credibility
-Burger (2009) replicated the study and found similar results of obedience even in more modern times.
70% went to maximum voltage
What is a criticism of Milgram’s study? objection
A criticism is that Milgram’s study lacks ecological validity and doesn’t represent everyday use of obedience.
What is Theodor Adorno’s argument regarding obedience? objection
Theodor Adorno argues that some people have an ‘Authoritarian Personality’ that is threatened by those who are different and enjoy following rules. This theory that suggests obedience to evil orders comes from a dysfunctional personality, not a social situation
What does social impact theory focus on? difference
Social impact theory focuses on social forces and pressures to obey, considering factors like strength, proximity, and the number of people exerting pressure.
