Have you ever noticed that sometimes people in groups seem to make less intelligent decisions than they would on their own? It’s a phenomenon that has puzzled social psychologists for decades. Why is it that when we come together in groups, we sometimes make decisions that are less than smart? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why humans get dumber when forming groups.

Firstly, let’s define what we mean by “dumber.” In this context, we’re not necessarily talking about IQ or intelligence in a general sense. Rather, we’re talking about the ability to make sound decisions. When we’re in groups, we can often become so focused on maintaining harmony and consensus that we lose sight of what’s actually best for the group.

One reason for this is social conformity. When we’re in groups, we often feel pressure to conform to the opinions and attitudes of the group. We want to fit in and be accepted, so we may be more likely to agree with the majority opinion, even if we have doubts about its validity. This can lead to a phenomenon known as “groupthink,” where the desire for consensus overrides critical thinking and independent judgment.

Another reason why humans get dumber when forming groups is due to the diffusion of responsibility. When we’re in a group, we may feel less individually responsible for the outcome of our decisions. This can lead to a phenomenon known as “social loafing,” where individuals may not put in as much effort or thought into decision-making as they would on their own.

In addition to these factors, group polarization can also contribute to group decision-making that’s less than intelligent. Group polarization is the tendency for group discussions to push individuals toward more extreme positions than they would take on their own. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as the desire to fit in with the group or to differentiate oneself from the opposition.

So, what can we do about this? How can we ensure that we make intelligent decisions even when we’re in groups? One solution is to encourage diversity within the group. When we have a variety of perspectives and opinions, we’re more likely to make well-rounded decisions. We can also establish clear decision-making processes that prioritize critical thinking and independent judgment over social conformity.

In conclusion, the phenomenon of humans getting dumber when forming groups is a complex one that’s rooted in social psychology. When we’re in groups, we may prioritize social conformity over critical thinking, feel less individually responsible, and be influenced by group polarization. However, by being aware of these factors and taking steps to mitigate them, we can ensure that we make sound decisions, both as individuals and as part of a group.