Obedience: Agency Theory and Authority Flashcards

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What is obedience in psychology?

Following direct orders from an authority figure.

Who suggested Agency Theory to explain obedience?

Stanley Milgram.

What does Agency Theory say about why people obey?

People switch from acting for themselves to acting for an authority figure, so they obey.

What is the autonomous state?

Acting on your own and taking personal responsibility.

What is the agentic state?

Acting as an agent for an authority figure, carrying out their orders.

What is the agentic shift?

The change from the autonomous state to the agentic state when a legitimate authority is present.

In the agentic state, who is seen as responsible for the action?

The authority figure who gave the order.

What is moral strain?

The stress you feel when orders go against your morals or values.

What are binding factors in Agency Theory?

Things that reduce moral strain and keep you obeying, like shifting blame to the authority or minimising harm.

What is meant by legitimate authority?

Power that society accepts as right, so the person has the right to give orders.

Name one sign that makes authority seem legitimate.

A uniform, badge, job title, or formal setting.

What is one weakness of Agency Theory?

It does not explain why some people still refuse to obey a clear, legitimate authority.