Naturally Off Topic
What happens when ordinary people are placed in positions of extreme power—or total powerlessness? The Stanford Prison Experiment, conducted in 1971 by Dr. Philip Zimbardo, sought to explore the psychological effects of perceived authority within a prison setting. What was meant to last two weeks spiraled out of control in just six days, revealing unsettling truths about human nature, obedience, and the corrupting influence of power.
On this page, you’ll find detailed show notes, source materials, and key documents that dive deep into this infamous study. Explore firsthand accounts, ethical debates, and the lasting impact of this experiment on psychology, criminal justice, and even real-world events like Abu Ghraib.
π Was this a groundbreaking revelation or a dangerously flawed study? Explore the evidence and decide for yourself.
π Listen to our episode, read the sources, and join the conversation.
To access the Prison Experiment notes, please click here.
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