The Michael Shermer Show cover image

The Michael Shermer Show

103. Robert Frank — Under the Influence: Putting Peer Pressure to Work

Feb 11, 2020
Psychologist Robert Frank discusses the power of social context in influencing behavior, focusing on climate-friendly policies, solar panels, and electric cars. The conversation also touches on peer pressure, positive behavioral externalities, moral progress, energy options, and ethical considerations like organ selling. Exploring societal influences on safety measures, dietary choices, and economic values, the podcast delves into balancing individual choices with collective impact.
01:49:07

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Social influence shapes behaviors like using solar panels and hybrid cars, impacting broader actions.
  • Transition to clean energy requires massive public investment and targeting wealthiest individuals.

Deep dives

Behavioral Contagion and Social Influence

Individual behaviors, like using solar panels and driving hybrid cars, can have a broader impact through behavioral contagion and social influence. Studies show that these actions can influence others to adopt similar behaviors, creating a positive ripple effect. The clustering of activities like solar panel installations in specific neighborhoods demonstrates the power of social influence in shaping environmental actions.

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