Definition of Majority Influence:

Majority Influence refers to the phenomenon where individuals conform to the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of a majority group. It occurs when group members adopt the majority position, even if it is different from their own initial opinions or perceptions.

Key Points:

• Conformity: Majority influence involves individuals conforming to the majority viewpoint, often due to the desire to be accepted or because they believe that the majority must be correct.
• Social Pressure: The power of the majority comes from the social pressure it exerts on individuals, making them feel the need to comply with the group’s norms and expectations.
• Normative Influence: Normative influence is a type of majority influence that occurs when individuals conform to avoid social rejection or gain approval from the group.
• Informational Influence: Informational influence is another type of majority influence that occurs when individuals adopt the majority position because they perceive it to be correct, assuming that the majority has more knowledge or expertise.
• Consequences: Majority influence can have both positive and negative consequences. It can lead to positive social cohesion and cooperation within a group, but it can also result in groupthink, where critical thinking is suppressed, and faulty decisions are made.