obedience

Question 1

What is Agency Theory?

Answer 1

Agency theory suggests that people transfer control of their actions to an authority figure, leading to obedience even when it conflicts with personal values.

Question 2

What is the agentic state?

Answer 2

A state where an individual sees themselves as an agent of the authority figure and follows instructions.

Question 3

What is the autonomous state?

Answer 3

A state where individuals act according to their own free will.

Question 4

What is moral strain?

Answer 4

The discomfort felt when asked to do something against personal values.

Question 5

What did Milgram argue in 1974 about obedience?

Answer 5

People obey horrific orders in the agentic state, perceiving themselves as tools of the authority figure.

Question 6

Name three factors that contribute to entering the agentic state.

Answer 6

1. Authority figures are usually trustworthy.
2. Orders escalate gradually (gradual commitment).
3. Consequences of actions are not visible (buffer).

Question 7

Why is the agentic state necessary for society?

Answer 7

It allows hierarchies to function and prevents chaos.

Question 8

Provide examples that reflect Agency Theory.

Answer 8

1. Abu Ghraib: Guards tortured prisoners under orders.
2. My Lai Massacre: Soldiers followed orders to massacre civilians.
3. Khmer Rouge: Followers obeyed authority without feeling responsible.

Question 8

What is an authoritarian personality, according to Adorno (1950)?

Answer 8

A personality type likely to obey, characterized by submission to authority, hostility toward lower status, rigid beliefs, and intolerance of ambiguity.

Question 8

Strengths of Agency Theory?

Answer 8

Supported by real-life events and Milgram’s research.

Question 9

Weaknesses of Agency Theory?

Answer 9

Ethical issues, can’t be used to excuse behavior, and lacks generalizability as not everyone obeys authority.

Question 10

What causes authoritarian personalities, according to Adorno?

Answer 10

Harsh discipline during childhood, leading to displaced hostility onto weaker individuals.

Question 11

Define social power theory.

Answer 11

Describes how power is exercised and shapes social experiences and inequalities.

Question 12

What are the five types of social power identified by French and Raven (1959)?

Answer 12

1. Coercive power: Using threats or force.
2. Reward power: Offering positive outcomes for compliance.
3. Legitimate power: Power from recognized authority.
4. Expert power: Power from knowledge or expertise.
5. Referent power: Power from being admired or respected.

Question 13

Strengths of Social Power Theory?

Answer 13

Explains obedience in contexts like the Holocaust and has applications to group behavior.

Question 14

Weaknesses of Social Power Theory?

Answer 14

Requires surveillance for coercive power, is hard to measure, and does not fully explain obedience.