What factors influence obedience as studied by Milgram?

Milgram's study on obedience was influenced by several factors.

Milgram's study on obedience was influenced by various factors, including social roles, authority, and situational variables. Milgram believed that people are more likely to obey an authority figure, even if it goes against their moral values or beliefs. He also found that the proximity of the authority figure and the victim, as well as the presence of other people, can affect the level of obedience.

Milgram's study showed that people tend to conform to social roles, such as that of a teacher or learner, and that these roles can influence their behaviour. The teacher was told to administer electric shocks to the learner when they answered questions incorrectly, and the learner pretended to be in pain. Milgram found that the participants continued to administer shocks even when the learner was screaming in pain, simply because the authority figure told them to do so.

Milgram's study highlighted the power of authority and the importance of situational variables in shaping behaviour. It also raised ethical concerns about the use of deception and potential harm to participants. Milgram's findings have been criticised for lacking ecological validity and generalisability, but they have contributed to our understanding of obedience and social influence.