Describe how seeking outside opinions can prevent groupthink.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Seeking outside opinions can prevent groupthink by introducing diverse perspectives and critical voices that question the status quo, stimulate debate, and challenge the conformity inside the group thereby leading to more balanced and robust decision-making.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Groupthink

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that happens within a group of people, where the desire for harmony and conformity in the group results in an incorrect or deviant decision-making outcome. People may feel compelled to agree with others, even if they personally believe otherwise, in order to avoid conflict.
02

Evaluating Outside Opinions

Outside opinions represent the thoughts, views, or feedback from individuals not belonging to the specific group or team making the decisions. These could originate from other departments in an organization, external analysts or consultants, stakeholders, or the public. They offer a different perspective to the existing thoughts within the group.
03

Linking Outside Opinions to Prevention of Groupthink

Seeking outside opinions can act as a measure to prevent groupthink because these opinions introduce diversity in thought. Outside opinions can question the status quo, present arguments or perspectives that were not considered before, stimulate debate and critical thinking, and test the validity of the group's decisions. Thus, they serve as a shield against the conformity pressure that leads to groupthink.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free