Explanations for Obedience

• What is agency theory in the context of Milgram's study?

  Feeling removed from one's actions
• What are examples of the agentic state?

  • Opening fire on civilians
  • My Lai massacre
  • Reporting a colleague for misconduct
  • Ignoring a friend due to peer pressure
• How does the agentic state affect personal responsibility?

  Minimizes responsibility and guilt
• What is required for the agentic state to occur?

  A legitimate authority figure
• How does social hierarchy relate to obedience?

  Higher status demands more obedience
• How is obedience towards authority figures transmitted?

  It is culturally transmitted