Now for a slightly more serious topic. There was this course that I was taking in school on Critical Thinking. In the topic, we talked about Group Think and the fallacies (and possible dangers) that revolve around this issue.
For some interesting reading on what it's really about, you can refer to this link.
Now, why would I make mention about this? Group think is not restricted only to corporate work groups but in social groups as well. And it strikes groups in varying degrees and especially groups that are highly cohesive (like ours!).
But fortunately for ourselves, we've got Spirit guidance and if need be, we should be constructively critical with each other where possible. Airing our views(not jokes) freely without fear of truly offending the other party. Only then we can draw from each other and from Jesus that is within each of us and corporately as a group.
4 comments:
very interesting read. what do you foresee are the possible dangers or obstacles that we might encounter?
Interesting ...
although it is perceived as safe and "conformist" to follow the consensus, if there are differences in opinions over matters of condequence, they should be aired to prevent build-up of resentment or possible future regrets (of not taking the other alternative, for example).
in groups we have the advantage of different minds with different life experiences and viewpoints. groups generally solve problems faster than sole individuals for this reason.
i personally have difficulty seeing an issue from "the other person's point-of-view", i find it helpful to actually hear the other point-of-view rather than trying to imagine it.
well, the general pitfall of groupthink would be hidden resentment among persons who have an opinion but chooses to remain silent to maintain group harmony.
there are those among us that are not as outspoken and those who tend to be really upfront with what's in their mind. there will be a constant 'struggle' to have a balanced view among the group.
a good way to avoid such a thing is to try as much as we can to seek the opinion and challenge the consensus of everyone rather than to accept the first satisficing decision as a common fact. (of cos not every decision in the group has to be challenged)
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