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Wisdom in Unity and Leadership in Crisis
In crisis situations, the instinct to band together can serve as a source of strength and intimidation against the adversary. However, the effectiveness of collective action is heavily dependent on the knowledge and wisdom within the group. Historical disasters illustrate a common trajectory of behavior during emergencies, starting with disbelief and denial, where individuals struggle to accept the reality of the crisis. This phase can lead to wasted time if individuals lack training. Following disbelief, a deliberation phase emerges, characterized by a reliance on social cues and guidance from others. People tend to comply with perceived leaders, especially if they possess crucial information for safety or escape. This compliance is evident in various disaster scenarios, such as mining accidents, where groups often choose to stick together, even when they sense that a given course of action may be ill-advised.