Milgram's Agency Theory

Milgram's Agency Theory suggests that individuals sometimes act as "agents" executing the decisions of authority figures, rather than acting on their own moral judgment. In this state, they feel less personally responsible for their actions and more willing to obey commands, even if these cause harm. The theory explains how ordinary people can commit harmful acts under authority pressure, emphasizing the influence of situational factors over personal conscience. It highlights the importance of understanding power dynamics and authority in shaping behavior, especially in contexts where obedience can lead to unethical actions.