How does minority influence work in the context of social change?

Minority influence can lead to social change by gradually persuading the majority to adopt new beliefs or behaviours.

Minority influence occurs when a small group of people hold a different opinion to the majority, but are able to influence the majority to change their beliefs or behaviours. This can happen through processes such as consistency, commitment, and flexibility. Consistency refers to the minority group consistently expressing their views over time, which can create doubt in the majority's beliefs. Commitment refers to the minority group being willing to suffer for their beliefs, which can increase their credibility. Flexibility refers to the minority group being willing to compromise and adapt their views, which can make their ideas more appealing to the majority.

Social change can occur when the minority group successfully persuades the majority to adopt their beliefs or behaviours. This can happen through a process called conversion, where the majority group gradually shifts their beliefs towards those of the minority. This can lead to changes in social norms and values, as well as changes in laws and policies.

However, minority influence is not always successful in leading to social change. Factors such as the size of the minority group, the level of opposition from the majority, and the level of social support for the minority can all affect the success of minority influence. Additionally, minority influence can sometimes lead to backlash and resistance from the majority, which can further entrench existing beliefs and behaviours.

Overall, minority influence can be a powerful force for social change, but it requires a combination of consistency, commitment, flexibility, and social support to be successful.