Abstract This paper analyzes the Asch studies of the nineteen-fifties, which evaluated the influence of group pressure. The author discusses the results of the Asch studies, assesses the desire of people for conformity, and concludes that the Asch studies were valuable even though they were limited in scope.
Analyzes Mike Gold's autobiographical novel, "Jews Without Money" and Sholem Asch's film, "Uncle Moses" and show how both depict Jews in New York at the turn of the century.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 2 sources, 2002, $ 44.95
Abstract Mike Gold and Sholem Asch were contemporaries but worlds apart. Gold, born on the Lower East Side in New York City, was pure American while Asch remained a European whose concerns were more with the Jewish shtetl than the tenements of Gold's world. Their paths crossed, however, in the subjects of Gold's autobiographical novel, "Jews Without Money" and of the film, "Uncle Moses", based on Asch's novel. While Gold's work is mainly anecdotal as opposed to the rather histrionic drama of the film, both examine the disparity between the old world and the new, the politics of strikes and socialism that were brewing at the time and both also celebrate the tremendous strength of the Jewish community.
Abstract This paper examines how the presence of others affects our performance and behaviour. The author argues that the presence of others effects simple/practiced tasks and complex ones differently. Included is an anlysis of group consensus and conformity, social impact theory, and a look at possible outcomes such as: diffusion of responsibility and pluralistic ignorance.
From the paper:
"Our behaviour is influenced in many ways by the actions, views and mere presence of those around us. Many studies in Social Psychology have been carried out on how this influence effects us and how much. It seems that the presence of an audience is beneficial only when the task at hand is simple or well practised. If not, the audience causes performance to get worse. When acting as part of a group, individuals tend to conform to a common group consensus. This is especially the case when such a consensus in unanimous. However, minorities do have the ability to change group norms or perceptions. Individuals are less likely to help those who maybe in trouble when there are other potential helpers around. This is mainly due to pluralistic ignorance and diffusion of responsibility. Social impact theory states that the level of influence on an individual depends on the number, status and proximity of the observers as well as on whether he is acting alone or with others."
Abstract An examination of how the themes of obedience and conformity are reflected in society, as well as in George Orwell's novel, "1984." The paper explains the nature of society's influence on the individual.
From the Paper "In George Orwell's frightening account of a society not too far removed from our own we find ourselves considering the nature of society's influence upon the individual and how that might be affected via propaganda, rhetoric advertisement or authority. The same notions have been considered by psychologists for quite some time."
