The Asch Experiment

The Asch Experiment, conducted by psychologist Solomon Asch in the 1950s, explored how social pressure influences individual judgment. Participants were shown lines of different lengths and asked to identify which ones were the same. Despite clear answers, many conformed to the incorrect choices made by group members who were actually confederates (actors). This experiment demonstrated the power of conformity, revealing that individuals often prioritize group consensus over their own perceptions, even when the correct answer is obvious. It highlights how social dynamics can impact decision-making and self-perception in group settings.