Pluralistic ignorance is a social phenomenon that is especially prevalent during times of uncertainty. When we are in a new or unfamiliar environment or circumstance, we find ourselves searching for appropriate behaviors or reactions. Typically, we look to the behaviors and reactions of others to guide our own response. Thus, our response is not based on what is right or effective, it is predicated primarily on what others are doing.
When caught up in pluralistic ignorance, we do
not really understand why we or anyone is given to a specific response or a set
of reactions. Others are doing it and that seems to be compelling enough.
Later, we then justify our “herding” with the group with more rational answers.
But if we are honest with ourselves, the real reason boils down to “everyone
else is doing it.”
You have likely asked your child a question to
the effect of, “If Timmy jumped off a bridge, would you?” But we need to be
asking ourselves, “If all my peers were jumping off a bridge, would I?”
When faced with uncertainty, you must not abandon
critical thinking. Whether it is following the crowd simply because it is the
crowd or going against the grain for the sole purpose of defying the masses,
you are engaging in pluralistic ignorance. In either case you are allowing the
herd to dictate your actions.
Remember to critically examine your actions and
decisions. Resist the pull (or push) of the herd and do not blindly accept or
reject their response. Rather, live by the words of I Thessalonians 5:21, “Test
all things; hold fast what is good.”
Comments
Post a Comment