Question 1

The results of the 2009 Milgram replication experiment could best be described as

Accepted Answer

A)   Supporting the findings of the Milgram study
B)   Failing to replicate the findings of the Milgram study
C)   Finding strong evidence to oppose the original Milgram study
D)   Differing so strongly in experimental methods as to be inapplicable to the original Milgram study. A

Question 2

If charisma can be used for both good and bad purposes, how can we best protect ourselves against those that would want to use it for ill? How can we recognize it when it is used for good?

Accepted Answer

Charisma is a powerful tool that can be used for both good and bad purposes. To protect ourselves against those who would want to use it for ill, we can start by being aware of the potential for manipulation. This means being cautious of individuals who seem overly charming or persuasive, and being mindful of our own vulnerabilities and boundaries. It's important to trust our instincts and not be swayed by someone's charisma alone. We can also seek out diverse perspectives and opinions to avoid being influenced by a single charismatic individual.

To recognize when charisma is used for good, we can look for genuine and authentic connections with others. Charismatic individuals who use their charm for positive purposes will often inspire and motivate others, rather than manipulate or deceive them. They will also demonstrate empathy, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others. Additionally, they will encourage open and honest communication, rather than using their charisma to control or dominate others. By being mindful of these qualities, we can better discern when charisma is being used for good.

Question 3

Can you think of some recent real life examples of the Milgram study in action, wherein people follow orders they know are wrong because they come from an authority? What are they?

Accepted Answer

One recent real-life example of the Milgram study in action is the case of the Abu Ghraib prison scandal in 2003. In this case, American soldiers were ordered by their superiors to mistreat and abuse prisoners, even though they knew it was wrong. Despite their moral objections, many of the soldiers followed orders from their higher-ranking officers, demonstrating the power of authority to influence behavior.

Another example is the 2011 Stanford prison experiment, where college students were assigned to play the roles of guards and prisoners in a simulated prison environment. The guards quickly became abusive and authoritarian, even though they knew it was just an experiment. This demonstrates how people can be influenced to act in ways that go against their moral compass when given authority over others.

These examples show that the findings of the Milgram study are still relevant today, as people continue to follow orders from authority figures even when they know it is wrong.

Question 4

Authority is best understood as influencing others through

Accepted Answer

A)   internalization
B)   personality
C)   affective processes
D)   compliance

Question 5

Which of the following is not an example of a leader that used charisma to persuade?

Accepted Answer

A)   Martin Luther King Jr
B)   Ronald Reagan
C)   Adolf Hitler
D)   All of the above used charisma to persuade

Question 6

Write an essay in which you describe the Milgram experiment, including the components of its experimental design, the purpose of the study, and its findings. In the aftermath, what criticisms of the study emerged? What does the Milgram experiment teach us about persuasion?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Write an essay in which you describe...

Question 7

Which of the following is not one of the core characteristics of charisma?

Accepted Answer

A)   Credibility
B)   Dynamism
C)   Authority
D)   Social Attractiveness

Question 8

Compare and contrast the classic Milgram experiments with the January 2009 replication study by Jerry M. Burger. What are the key similarities and differences? If you were going to do a replication study, what would you have done the same or differently?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Compare and contrast the classic Milgram experiments...

Exam 9: Who Says It: Charisma, Authority, and the Controversial Milgram Study