Which statement best captures Milgram's implication about authority and disobedience when a disobedient model is present?

Which statement best captures Milgram's implication about authority and disobedience when a disobedient model is present?

• A. People always obey authority
• B. A disobedient minority can reduce obedience in others
• C. Authority has no influence on behavior
• D. Only about 50% obey regardless of models

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that obedience to authority is not automatic and can be undermined by social cues in the situation. When a disobedient model is present, it provides a visible example that defying the orders is possible and acceptable. This makes the authority’s demands feel less intimidating and gives others in the room permission to resist, reducing the pressure to conform. People look to those who resist to gauge how they should act, so a minority that refuses can lead others to follow suit. The other statements misread Milgram’s findings by implying obedience is unwavering, or that authority has no influence, or that obedience sits at a fixed level regardless of what others do.

The main idea is that obedience to authority is not automatic and can be undermined by social cues in the situation. When a disobedient model is present, it provides a visible example that defying the orders is possible and acceptable. This makes the authority’s demands feel less intimidating and gives others in the room permission to resist, reducing the pressure to conform. People look to those who resist to gauge how they should act, so a minority that refuses can lead others to follow suit. The other statements misread Milgram’s findings by implying obedience is unwavering, or that authority has no influence, or that obedience sits at a fixed level regardless of what others do.