Like It Or Not, We Are Being Influenced

In an attempt to prove that we are right about everything, we sometimes change what we believe in order to be right. We are influenced by others simultaneously be part of the crowd, to be a part of the ruling majority, while at the same time be unique and superior to everyone else. With a culture that pushes individuality and success, it is no wonder why people in this country have an incredible fear of failure. That is why we strive to do everything the right way, and prove that we are never in the wrong. That is why we are so quick to select people to confirm our beliefs, surround ourselves with media that aligns with our views, and join into any cause that seems the most profitable to ourselves.

With the third-person effect, we see that people can have a pride issue that leads them to believe they are not influenced by media - yet everyone else is. But what happens when issues become salient in our minds? Suddenly we are influenced to talk about that subject and even surround ourselves with discussion on that topic. What about when we see a tip jar filled with cash and we are suddenly influenced to join into the fun? Social norms can drive us to be part of the crowd, even when we claim independence from the general population. When we claim the "other side" to be wrong and completely defective, are we taking a look at why we are on our own side to begin with? Were we influenced by media to pick the side that would be most beneficial to us? Think about a Superbowl game: you're probably not going to be a fan of either team, but by the day of the game you are a die-hard supporter for the team you believe will win. Band-wagoners are more prevalent than we realize, and definitely influenced by others.

Whether we believe it or not, people in general have a better chance of being the influenced, rather than the one who influences. In our attempt to claim independence from the crowd, or from the "system," we still form groups and opinions that are influenced by the media and by the population around us. It may not be noticeable, but to say that the media hasn't figured out how to push our buttons and influence our decisions is probably wrong.