Hidden Brain Marching To Your Own Drummer
Feb 24, 2025
Sunita Sah, a Cornell University psychologist and author of "Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes," explores the curious phenomenon of self-silencing. She discusses why people often comply with authority instead of speaking out, revealing societal pressures that lead to preference falsification. Through compelling anecdotes, she highlights the emotional cost of silence, especially in critical situations like healthcare. The conversation also emphasizes reclaiming personal agency and aligning actions with core values, encouraging listeners to navigate the tension between conformity and integrity.
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CT Scan Compliance
- Sunita Sah experienced chest pain and went to the ER.
- Despite not needing a CT scan, she complied due to inherent obedience.
Painful Massage
- Sunita Sah's friend, Rick, endured a painful massage without protest.
- He prioritized the massage therapist's feelings over his own discomfort.
Good vs. Compliant
- Sunita Sah links compliance to her upbringing, where obedience was equated with goodness.
- Defiance, conversely, was seen as bad behavior.
