Social Proof (Safety in Numbers)

Category
Human Nature
Description

Human beings are one of many social species, along with bees, ants, and chimps, among many more. We have a DNA-level instinct to seek safety in numbers and will look for social guidance of our behavior. This instinct creates a cohesive sense of cooperation and culture which would not otherwise be possible, but also leads us to do foolish things if our group is doing them as well.

Person
Resource Datasbase
Source

Shane Parrish's Farnam Street Mental Model Guide