######### FROM CHUCK TUCKER 931123/2 #########
Milgram, a student of Asch's, found that 37/40 "Teachers" would
"pull" the handle for 450 volts after the "learner" had made
a series of "errors" in recalling word matches. This was the
study called "A Peer Administers Shocks" (Milgram, 1974:113-122)
wherein two other confederates of Milgram pretended to be "co-
teachers" with the "subject-teacher" but the "subject-teacher"
did not actually "pull the lever" but did recommend with the
insistence of the "co-teachers" and the "experimentor" that the
"XXX Danger 450 Volts" lever be pulled.
This is the highest percentage obtained in all of Milgram's 22
studies (which range from 0% to this one at 92.5%).
I agree with Bill's objections to the Milgram's shocking studies
but I would argue (along with Clark and Ernie Rigney) that they
provide powerful and dramatic support for PCT at the higher levels
with "groups". Even Milgram attempts to explain his results with
a cybernetic viewpoint (pp. 123-134) but he (like many who just
"pick up" this viewpoint) did not model the process properly. It
can be done and even re-tested using "role-playing" procedures and
before I die (project number 35!!) I would like to do it.
Thankful for being able to share in the wisdom, insight and knowledge
of all of you who write to each other about extremely important and
useful ideas on this net and our association "formalized" through
the Control Systems Group and Friends. Amen
Happy Turkey Time to all. Regards, Chuck