Coinage of the term – bandwagon effect
The bandwagon effect (or groupthink) is a psychological sensation where individuals do something mainly due to the fact that other individuals are doing it, no matter of their very own ideas, which they may disregard or override. The origin of the expression originates from making use of a bandwagon, which is a float in a parade that encourages individuals to jump aboard as well as take pleasure in the music that is being played. The infectious effect of songs as well as celebration guarantees that multitudes of individuals will be jumping on. This concept was used from the 19th century in political projects to connect candidates with the concept of having a good time and to aim out those that are not on the bandwagon as missing out.
Implications of the bandwagon effect
With time, we define it as a kind of adjustment to influence individuals. To follow a pattern in politics or consumer behaviour. The ramification is that since so many people are doing it, it should be good, or at least acceptable. This phenomenon does not permit each person to examine their particular worths as well as ideas. Thus, they can’t see if the dominating trend is something with which they select to participate.
The bandwagon effect has wider ramifications outside of national politics and getting behaviors. In social psychology, this tendency of people to align their beliefs and behaviors with those of a group is also called “herd mentality” or “groupthink”. For those people who wish to be independent in making decisions. To make sure they are free to choose what will improve their well-being. It is wise to become aware of things that are influencing them.
“When you hear the same story everywhere you look and listen, you assume it must be true. And the more people believe it’s true, the more likely they are to repeat it, and thus the more likely you are to hear it. This is how inaccurate information can create a bandwagon effect, leading quickly to a broad, but mistaken, consensus.”
Barry Schwartz, Author of ‘The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less’
We are all so significantly impacted by the people around us. If we are around people that check out a great deal, it boosts us to learn more. Likewise, If we are around individuals that are politically conscious, we pay more focus to political events and trends. If we are around people who eat a balanced diet and also workout routinely. We are much more likely to live a healthy way of living. That is healthy groupthink.
Famous last words
What I have learned from my own relationships as well as the frustration of those around me is not to go for so little when so much is offered. When we are bordered by individuals that choose less, there is certain to be a bandwagon effect. If we jump on that bandwagon, we begin feeling like those on the wagon do. If they are resigned that this is just as good as it gets as well as set their websites low, we will be motivated in many subtle methods to establish our sites low as well.