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It is possible to change peoples minds, but the trick is that you have to convince everyone around them first. Social proof is the most powerful force in the un
by enjo 12y ago
It is possible to change peoples minds, but the trick is that you have to convince everyone around them first. Social proof is the most powerful force in the universe. It's infuriating, but the research shows us time and time again that most people simply choose the position they perceive to be most popular.
It is, incidentally, why the internet is so dangerous. It is easier now, more than ever, to surround yourself with people who confirm your beliefs ALL OF THE TIME. If we're going to make decisions socially, that's a pretty worrying state of affairs.
It is also why most meaningful change happens in generational cycles. At least that is how it seems to me.
- bambax 12y agoIt is also why most meaningful change happens in generational cycles "People don't change their minds. They die, and are replaced by people with different opinions" -- Arturo Albergati, via Paul Graham (http://www.paulgraham.com/quo.html http://www.paulgraham.com/quo.html) (Strangely, when one searches for that quote, the first hit is Paul Graham's page; I'd like to know where exactly this was said, but couldn't find it after a quick investigation).
- VintageCool 12y agoThat sounds similar to the Max Planck quote that "science progresses one funeral at a time". Actually, that might be paraphrased, the quote which seems more authentic according to Google is this: "A new scientific truth does not triumph by convincing its opponents and making them see the light, but rather because its opponents eventually die, and a new generation grows up that is familiar with it"
- simonebrunozzi 12y agoHe learned it while studying in Florence I guess.