SOCIAL INFLUENCE: Persuasion: Mass Suicide

            Mass suicide is a scary topic which requires an immense amount of persuasion. Mass suicide begins with a leader, a message, and a following known as a cult. The leader is what needs to be the enticing perspective in gathering a cult, and this is done through the message. An individual can easily become persuaded by someone who they view as influential or powerful. They also can become persuaded when those they respect, love, or follow also follow and support the message. Mass suicide Robert Cialdini PhD. (2003) explained that, “Sources of influence can be like dynamite- they can be used for good or used for ill…” Melissa Dittmann (2003) explains that after researching several cases of mass suicide it has been discovered that several of the leaders have relied on research and knowledge of social psychology. Robert Cialdini PhD (2003) further explains that, “Social scientists need to pay more attention to not just the effectiveness of the strategies we study and uncover but also the ethical ramifications of the use these principles and practices.” 10 of the most notorious suicide cults in history are, Puputan, Bali, Order of the Solar Temple, Switzerland and Canada, Harakiri Japan, Sicarii Rebels, Masada, Israel, Jauhar, Rajput, India, Self-immolation, Vietnam, Haven’s Gate, San Diego, California, The Branch Davidian Seventh-Day Adventists, Waco Texas, Movement for the restoration of the ten commandments of God, Uganda, and People’s Temple Jonestown Massacre, Guyana. If you’re interested in learning more about the cause and effects of these mass suicides follow this link http://brainz.org/10-most-notorious-suicide-cults-history/. Please be warned the images are graphic though.

Reference:

Brainz.org. (2010). 10 Most Notorious Suicide Cults in History. Retrieved from http://brainz.org/10-most-notorious-suicide-cults-history/

Melissa Dittmann. (2003). Lessons from Jonestown. American Psychological Association. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/monitor/nov03/jonestown.aspx

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