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What is 'euphemistic language' and how is it used in the context of evil acts?
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Euphemistic language sanitizes and obscures the reality of cruel actions, such as using 'enhanced interrogation' instead of 'torture'.
What does Zimbardo suggest about the importance of awareness to prevent evil acts?
Awareness of situational influences and conscious decision-making can empower individuals to avoid committing evil acts and choose good.
How does dehumanization contribute to acts of cruelty?
Dehumanization involves labeling others as less than human, which facilitates and justifies harsh and cruel behaviors against them.
What is the 'moral cliff' as described in the Lucifer Effect?
The moral cliff refers to the fine line between good and evil behavior and how individuals can unknowingly cross it through small transgressions.
What role did Ivan Frederick play at Abu Ghraib and what does it illustrate?
Ivan Frederick was a prison guard at Abu Ghraib who became a torturer, illustrating the power of situational factors in transforming behavior.
What percentage of participants in the Milgram Experiment administered the highest voltage shocks?
65% of participants administered the highest voltage in the Milgram Experiment, despite the apparent distress of the learner.
What are some factors that can lead individuals to resist situational pressures and act heroically?
Personal accountability, questioning authority, and performing small acts of courage can help individuals resist negative situational pressures.
Explain the concept of 'deindividuation' and its impact on behavior.
Deindividuation refers to a loss of self-awareness and sense of personal responsibility, often resulting in disinhibited, immoral behavior.
What does the Lucifer Effect suggest about the choices individuals must make regarding their moral character?
The Lucifer Effect suggests that moral character is shaped by daily decisions, and individuals must consciously choose to act heroically and ethically.
Give an example of a historical event where blind obedience led to failure.
The Jonestown Massacre is an example where blind obedience to authority led to tragic consequences.
What is the 'duality of human nature' as presented in the Lucifer Effect?
The duality of human nature indicates that everyone has the potential for both good and evil, influenced by daily choices and situations.
How does 'obedience to authority' play a role in facilitating evil actions?
Obedience to authority can supplant personal morality and compel individuals to commit acts of cruelty, as shown in historical events like the Milgram Experiment.
What significant behavior was observed in the Stanford Prison Experiment among the guards?
The guards in the Stanford Prison Experiment began displaying cruel behavior due to the power dynamics involved in the roles.
How does Zimbardo challenge the belief that character is fixed?
Zimbardo argues that people's character is not fixed and that situational factors can lead otherwise good people to commit evil acts.
What role does the concept of 'personal accountability' play in becoming a hero?
Personal accountability encourages individuals to resist negative influences and situational pressures, helping them to perform heroic acts.
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