The groupthink syndrome is characterized by eight main symptoms:
(1) an illusion of invulnerability creating extreme optimisim and the
willingness to take excessive risks; (2) collective efforts to rationalize
away warnings; (3) an unswerving belief in the rightness of the group's
intentions; (4) a perception that any opposition is either too evil to
negotiate with or too stupid to counter planned actions; (5) the exertion of
direct pressure on any member that deviates from the collective sterotypes,
illusions, or committments; (6) self-censureship of any doubts fely by
membership; (7) a shared illusion of unanimty and the assumption that silence
means consent; and (8) the immergence of self-appointed mind guards who
perceive their duty to protect the group from any contrary signs or adverse
infromation.
Reason ends this chapter by stating " The powerful forces of perceived
togetherness act in concert to render the possibility of failure unthinkable -
- and if not unthinkable, then certainly unspeakable" (p. 124).
I would suggest that the eight points and the quote provide food for thought
for all CRMers!
Regards,
Tony A.