Would You Do Something to Help? The Bystander Effect and Final Guided Questions

Take a look at this short documentary outlining the case of Kitty Genovese, a young woman murdered in the presence of 38 witnesses. The term "bystander effect" was coined after this crime. Then read this article by Dr. Schwartz about a 2009 case of bystander effect. You may even remember hearing about this in the news.  After taking a look at these cases, respond to the post and discuss what factors you think might help in reversing the bystander effect.

Any other comments are welcome as well. Remember once again, it's easy to think that the people we read about involved in, or witnesses of such heinous acts are simply "evil" and that we would never sit by and allow things to unfold the way they did.

Also, here are the last guided questions. They aren't due until Monday, but if you're feeling it you can get a jumpstart! (However, part 1 questions are, in fact, due Monday)

  

Obedience: Would you keep pulling the switch?

Stanley Milgram's classic experiment proved that it's not just the evil, stupid or the weak who are willing to follow orders. Ordinary, mentally healthy people are likely to comply with authority as well. You can take a look at the original footage of the procedure or you can watch a replication of the experiment done in the UK in 2009 Of course, you can watch both if you choose!  Both versions have three parts. Please watch all three parts, you'll gain a greater understanding, it's interesting and you'll never forget the experiment.

After you've watched one of the experiments, read the 2008 article in the New York Times about the lasting power of the experiments and respond to this post with brilliant insights! Discuss what you think this demonstrates about human nature. Remember, everyone always thinks that they wouldn't go all the way, how 'bout you?