The Death of Peak Oil (at least for now)

[GliderGuider]

18. Psychology is a real stumbling block in group dynamics

Groups are prone to status/dominance competitions that result in the emergence of cliques and leaders. Such competitions are virtually a defining characteristic of organized groups. Being part of the leading clique is usually so attractive that people will self-censor any differences of opinion in order to ensure their membership. This happens all the time in real life, in boardrooms and meeting halls everywhere. I've seen it play out in almost every on-line forum or blog I've participated it, including The Oil Drum, Nature Bats Last, Facebook groups and DU boards. It's the reason for the echo-chamber effect and groupthink.

It's especially active in politics, and is a (the?) major obstacle to proactive decision-making on big issues like climate change. Interdisciplinary groups may be the toughest, because each member gives primacy to the discipline(s) they are most secure in and derogates other perspectives - the bun-fights can be breathtaking.

Because the primary reward in this competition is status, and the competition is reinforced by the neurotransmitter dopamine, it's very difficult indeed to prevent. It's a main reason why I tend not to belong to many such groups.