Minority Influence

Cards (6)

  • Internalisation
    In order to leave the majority, an individual will have to fundamentally change their view or opinion on something to meet the minority.
  • Consistency
    • Diachronic - An individual in the minority who has kept the same belief over time is more likely to persuade the majority to convert
    • Synchronic - Multiple individuals within the minority share the same belief, therefore strengthening it
  • Commitment
    Influence is stronger when individuals in the minority show dedication and draw attention to their position e.g. by making personal sacrifices - the minority is not acting out of self-interest - “Augmentation Principle”
  • Flexibility
    Nemeth - Not showing a degree of flexibility can be off-putting to the majority. Minority should accept reasonable counter-arguments and adapt their position accordingly.
  • Explaining the process of change
    Snowball effect - As more people convert to the views of the minority, the faster the rate of conversion.
  • R+ - Moscovici et al
    • Blue/green slide study
    • Consistent minority opinion greater effect on changing the view of the majority than an inconsistent minority opinion