Elliot Aronson, preeminent psychologist, discusses his pioneering work on cognitive dissonance and rationalization. They explore the dangers of self-justification and strategies for better decision making. The podcast also touches on the power of vulnerability in teaching, the importance of persuasion and innovation in office supplies, reflections on career choices, the significance of practical work in psychology, and the keys to a happy marriage.
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Quick takeaways
Addressing cognitive dissonance by revealing vulnerability can foster closer relationships.
Active involvement in making an argument increases the likelihood of convincing individuals through self-persuasion.
Deep dives
Elliot Aronson's Pioneering Research on Cognitive Dissonance
Elliot Aronson, a legendary social psychologist, is known for his groundbreaking work on cognitive dissonance. He co-authored the influential book 'Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me)', exploring the uncomfortable tension we experience when our attitudes and actions conflict. Aronson emphasizes the importance of addressing cognitive dissonance and suggests that revealing vulnerability, even through mistakes or blunders, can actually make people feel closer to us. He also highlights the power of self-persuasion, where individuals are more likely to be convinced of an argument if they are actively involved in making it.
The Pratfall Effect and the Power of Vulnerability
Aronson's research on the Pratfall Effect demonstrates that people are more likable and relatable when they make a minor, non-threatening mistake after being perceived as competent. This effect is particularly effective when individuals have a track record of success or high status. Aronson also references recent research showing that revealing failures or vulnerabilities along the path to success can reduce envy and garner admiration from others.
The Dark Side of Dissonance: Self-Justification and Harmful Behavior
Aronson discusses the darker side of dissonance reduction, where individuals engage in self-justification to rationalize their harmful actions. This behavior can be seen in examples like prosecutors who refuse to recognize exonerating evidence or justify sending more troops to war despite escalating harm. Aronson warns against the dangers of justifying and perpetuating harmful behavior through self-deception, underscoring the importance of self-reflection and accountability.
Overcoming Prejudice and Building Cooperation
Aronson shares the success of the jigsaw classroom, an educational intervention he developed to reduce prejudice and foster cooperation among diverse groups of students. The jigsaw classroom brings together students of different races and genders in small groups, where they each have unique information or puzzle pieces to contribute. Through cooperative engagement, active listening, and reliance on each other, students develop empathy and positive attitudes towards one another. Aronson highlights the potential of such interventions to promote harmony and understanding, even in the face of societal polarization and outgroup dehumanization.
Elliot Aronson is one of the preeminent psychologists of the 20th century — his mentors were Abraham Maslow and Leon Festinger, and his award-winning psychology textbooks are seminal even for non-psychologists. Adam asks Elliot about his pioneering work on making mistakes and cognitive dissonance, or the discomfort we feel when we realize that our attitudes or actions contradict our values. Then, the two discuss the dangers (and upsides) of rationalizing our beliefs — and strategies for making better decisions while keeping an open mind. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts
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