Sheep Factors
by Pauline Douglas
Bring together a group of unseasoned decision makers into forum to make a collective decision on a subject and observe the dynamics.
Leaders and leaders-of-the-opposition materialise. Group opinion ebbs to and fro like a wave between the debates put forth by the most vocal. Other members appear to lose their individual identities and swing with majority conclusion instead of considering and voicing their own views.
They have allowed themselves to become brainwashed, they have become sheep.
When Sheep Factors become a Mob Dynamic - frightening scenarios can result - such as the infamous Lindy Chamberlain* persecution, or the genocide in many Wars. We have to question, at what point does a soldier doing his perceived duty make him responsible for a Mob Dynamic?
Sheep Factors come about from the need to "look good" and be accepted in the group.
The prospect of disagreeing with the Group Dynamic would take an individual out of their comfort zone. Opposing majority opinion may be subject to disagreement, even ridicule. Much better to "sit on the fence" ... "not rock the boat" and go along with the flock.
Sheep Factors are everywhere - in Training Rooms, on Committees, in Clubs, in Organisations, in Industries, in Schools, in Towns, in Cities, in Governments, even our friendships and family circles.
Sheep Factors state "That's how we've always done it ..." or "They said so - so it must be true ..." or "If you don't think this way - your not one of us ..." etc.
To what cost do we participate in Sheep Factors?
We could take on the harmful beliefs and opinions of a Group to unwittingly become a part of a Mob Dynamic. We might find ourselves partaking in character assassinations or accepting the righteous or judgmental opinions of others. We might entertain pre-conceived notions or gossip e.g. "Don't tell him I told you but did you know that John was ....." or "Jack said that Jill is .... so you better not ..."
Stepping beyond Sheep Factors provides us with the opportunity to build he vital quality of "Interdependence" - essential to all personal power!
Great achievers changed the course of Humanity by challenging the 'Group Think' and inventing new ways and ideas.
Venturing out of your comfort zone to become an unbiassed Leader and encouraging others to do the same, will not only enhance your personal power but bring integrity to the Group.
Think about it!
*Lindy Chamberlain - famous Australian incident where Lindy's baby was taken by a Dingo when on holiday in Northern Territory. Lindy was accused of murdering her baby without sufficient proof to substantiate the conviction. Lindy was trialled by popular opinion generated by the media at the time.
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Sheep Factors
by Pauline Douglas
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