Groupthink Analysis

Superficially the ideas promoted through groupthink often result in decisions appearing well founded and heavily supported, however the outcomes of such decisions are most frequently detrimental. Factors of cognitive dissonance are quite often evident in members of groupthink decisions, with individuals finding in reflection that they generally possessed ideas starkly contrasting the concepts which they just publically supported. Such incongruity in beliefs and decisions according to Hackman and Johnson arise when groups “put unanimous agreement above all other considerations” (Hackman Johnson 214). Personally through my participation in my local caving club, the Paha Sapa Grotto, I have witnessed and fallen victim to groupthink, the ramifications of which are still negatively effecting the grotto today.
In 2012 the owner of Brooks Cave, a
The owner, who for several decades had been a friendly with cavers, openly allowing access, was ailing and wanted to ensure that her precious cave was protected for future generations even after her passing. Our caving club of course jumped at the opportunity to own such a pristine cave and piece of land, however, it quickly became apparent that finances were an obvious problem. Not wanting to lose the opportunity to aqurried and protect the cave however, purchase activity moved forward, in hopes our parent organization the National Speleological Society would be able to assist in funding. As we moved forward as an organization everyone was overwhelmed by the excitement of soon having unrestricted access to Brooks Cave. However, it quickly became apparent that even with the NSS’s funding the grotto itself would have to raise almost 50,000 dollars over five years. Considering the grotto consists of approximately 30 people, this fact alone should have triggered alarms. Interestingly enough however not a single individual showed public