Psychology
The Bystander Effect in Emergency Situations and Its Social Determinants
Quick fact
In a classic experiment, when people were alone, about 70% reported a smoke-filled room immediately, but in a group of three, only about 38% did—even though the smoke became thick and obvious. The presence of others dramatically reduced the chance that anyone intervened.
Why this is interesting
Imagine you are walking down a busy street and see a person collapse. You assume someone else will call for help—and often, no one does. Why does the crowd seem to make us less compassionate, not more?