Summary
Obedience is described as a method which connects the actions of people and a purpose. Milgram also explains the basics of the experiments that will be chronicled in the book. The motivation for his experiments is found in Nazi Germany.
Discussion
This seems to be a basic introduction to the motivation behind the research area and the experimental setup that will be used. I appreciate the clarity with which this is written so far, it doesn't leave much to interpretation.
Chapter Two
Summary
A very detailed explanation of the experimental design is given. Consideration is given to who should participate and how to keep the true meaning a secret. Other artifacts like advertisements for the study are disclosed.
Discussion
It's nice to see such a thorough experimental design set out in advance. When I first read about these experiments they seemed ad-hoc and mad-scientist like, but now they seem very scientific and methodically planned.
Chapter Three
Summary
Milgram begins to form a hypothesis about the outcomes of the experiment. He polls people (without telling them about the actor) and they all believe the teacher will stop administering shocks.
Discussion
I really like the idea of polling for a hypothesis. So often we just use our own intuition and hope to validate it, but this is a good idea. I don't see this style used very often in the area I study.
Chapter Four
Summary
The variations of the experiment are detailed. Proximity plays a role in altering the setup. In some designs the actor is very close, in others he is completely obscured. The basic outcome is that the closer victim lowers obedience to authority.
Discussion
It's interesting to see proximity playing a role in obedience. The idea that simply being physically closer to the actor made participants less likely to shock them is intriguing. Why is this? Is the theatrical aspect just more powerful or do they feel more connected?
Chapter Five
Summary
The various factors which Milgram views as effecting a participant's response are discussed. Several detailed accounts of interactions are given. A strong focus to accounts of the interaction is given.
Discussion
I really enjoyed reading the accounts of the interactions. In this case having that kind of raw data is much more interesting to me than the numbers. This also answered questions I had about people having special knowledge about electric shock and their actions. I was glad to see they did not obey.
Chapter Six
Summary
The experiment was repeated several times with varying factors. The location was changed for example. Various expansions of the experiment were made (women as participants, choice of schock level, etc.). The results were not very different.
Discussion
The validation of the study was crucial and Milgram definitely proves his point with all of these checks. Once again it was interesting to observe the effects of proxemics in action.
Chapter Seven
Summary
More accounts of the interactions during the experiment are given.
Discussion
These chapters are very enjoyable to read. I appreciate the inclusion of this data very much, as it really helps me understand the justifications participants had for their actions. Knowing the outcome is one thing, but understanding the reasoning is another-- this gives that extra viewpoint.
Chapter Eight
Summary
More variations are applied. Many manipulations concerning roles of authority and interactions between the actor and participant are described.
Discussion
This experiment must have never ended-- I can't figure out if Milgram was just hoping to invalidate his results eventually or was obsessed with detail. In any case it is great to have this much data to analyze.... this is useful for those wishing to look back at the study in detail.
Chapter Nine
Summary
Milgram begins to look at the effects of forming peer pressure type groups and monitoring participant reactions. For the most part the responses of the pressure group seems to be mimicked by the participant.
Discussion
This seems expected: if someone takes the initiative most everyone in an unfamiliar situation will follow their lead. This feels more like social pressure to conform rather than obey authority.
Chapter Ten
Summary
A substantial discussion concerning the place of obedience in society and the necessity of it evolves throughout this chapter. The basic argument is that a hierarchical structure of authority is required to keep social order. Discussion of agnetic state and binding factors takes place.
Discussion
This was more of the actual model or theory that Milgram was using to give reason and purpose to the results of the experiment. It was interesting, but a bit involved and heavy on terminology. Overall it is necessary to understand the broader implications.
Chapter Eleven
Summary
More detail is given about the theory behind authority. Explanations of binding factors and antecedent conditions, like family and rewards are discussed. The preservation of the agnetic state is explored through binding factors.
Discussion
More the theory is exposed here, but with a bit more of application and example. This was a bit easier to read than the previous chapter and seemed to reinforce the same ideas
Chapter Twelve
Summary
Milgram explores strains and the mechanisms that connect it to obedience. Milgram explains that increased strain will cause disobedience.
Discussion
I am not sure I agree with Milgrams viewpoint concerning the strain being some sort of force which completely decides the outcome. I would argue that knowledge could also cause disobedience.
Chapter Thirteen
Summary
Is it possible that people just wanted to hurt someone with no penalty? Milgram doesn't think so. People consistently chose lower voltage levels when given the option, indicating they weren't in it to torture another human.
Discussion
Agression is considered here and rightfully so. In my mind it would be rare that so many people could possible fall into an agression category should it exist, but this is a good check to have.
Chapter Fourteen
Summary
The skeptics viewpoint is considered and argued against in this chapter. Milgram discredits many alternative theories as to why the participants obeyed. Ultimately he compares this to Nazi Germany.
Discussion
It was good to see these criticisms addressed formally by Milgram. I still believe it was a factor of knowledge and trust which caused participants to obey.
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