PDF: Interpersonal Dynamics in a Simulated Prison
This article discusses the famous Stanford prison experiment.
Interactive: Stanford Prison Experiment Slide Tour
The article above and this slide show give you an overview of the Stanford prison study and
some of the issues faced both by the participants as well as the researchers.
Library Article: Behavioral Study of Obedience
This article gives you an overview of the very famous Milgram obedience study from the early
1960s.
Video: Obedience
In the film, we see subjects instructed to administer electric shocks of increasing severity to
another person, and observe both obedient and defiant reactions. After the experiment, we
witness subjects explain firsthand their actions.
Library Article: Studies of Independence and Conformity: I. A Minority of One Against a
Unanimous Majority
This reading discusses the Solomon Ash studies on conformity and majority. After completing the readings and video of the studies by Milgram, Zimbardo, and Asch,
answer the following questions: What are the key variables that increase or decrease
obedience?
If you were a researcher interested in exploring these variables, what ethical considerations
would you need to address? How do these variables impact social welfare or lead to restrict
social change?
Use research from the Shapiro Library to support your claims.
