Explanations for obedience- Legitimacy of Authority & Agency Theory Flashcards
Research evidence to support Legitimacy of Authority: Strength of Bickman
Bickman:
Found that individuals were twice as likely to follow orders from a security guard (represents a legitimate authority figure)
What is the Agency Theory?
It explains why people are prepared to go against their will and do as they are told, even if it causes them considerable distress
What are the two types of social consciousness?
Autonomous State
Agentic State
What is the Autonomous state?
Individuals direct their own behaviour, and take responsibility for their consequences
What is the Agentic state?
Individuals allow someone else to direct their behaviour- they pass responsibility to them