In reading Chapter 11 of “Principles of Management”, I found the section on decision-making in groups to be very interesting. It explores how group decision-making can enhance creativity and lead to better outcomes when done effectively. What stood out to me the most was the section on groupthink, which describes how the desire for harmony or consensus can actually suppress critical thinking and lead to poor decisions. It is shocking how easily people can conform to avoid conflict, even when they know something is wrong.

This concept feels relevant to today’s political and social climate. In many cases, we can see groupthink playing out in real time, whether within political parties, activist movements, or social media platforms. Instead of encouraging open debate or questioning, people often rally behind dominant voices or popular narratives in fear of backlash or exclusion if they don’t agree. As a result, complex issues are only discussed superficially and people maintain their one-sided perspectives.

What I find most interesting about this topic is how subtle and human it is. Groupthink does not come from ill intent but often comes from our social need to belong and to maintain unity. Yet, it shows how easily our good intentions can undermine sound judgment. This makes me think about the importance of open dialogue in groups and creating safe spaces where people can disagree respectfully without fear of judgment.

Fortunately, I have been able to experience these safe spaces that have helped me to openly question issues and form my own educated opinions. It makes me wonder what it would take for the majority of society to adopt this way of thinking. And has social media changed this form of thought, or did it just amplify it?

University of Minnesota. (2015). Decision Making in Groups. In Principles of Management (pp.490-497). University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing.