CROWD BEHAVIOR

The psychology of crowd behavior has always interested me, ever since I studied it in a college Sociology class. It has caused me to analyze my actions in a group as if I were being observed by a neutral party, like a scientist watching a rat in a maze. The dynamics of a crowd can be scary. It's not unlike what happens when you find out your precious dog that sleeps on your bed at night is part of a daytime pack that takes down sheep.

There are three viewpoints when you are part of a crowd. The first is as a participant. I try to determine if my actions in the crowd are a true reflection of my values, or if I am being manipulated. Another viewpoint is to look at the person leading the crowd. What is their intent? If the crowd follows their lead, what will the result be? The third perspective is if I am the leader. Am I using my abilities to influence people in an ethical manner? Do these people really know what the end result of this action is going to be?

Frankly, I don't think we can depend on the leader to be ethical. We, as individuals in a crowd have a responsibility to be manipulated ethically. I know, it sounds strange, but it happens all the time. At a football game, everyone stands up when there is a touchdown. What if you don't stand? Are you worried about peer pressure? In a group of friends, everyone is expected to laugh at a joke. Do you laugh when it's not funny? Arn't you allowing yourself to be manipulated in little ways, all the time? Political rallies are notorious for manipulating crowds. They have made it a science. When you are in a crowd, are you aware of your behavior? When is it permissible to be manipulated? When is it ok to manipulate? Comedians do it all the time. Do you have the gift?