To explore the power of community in the wake of recent election results, let’s start with the classic question: If your friends jumped off a bridge, would you follow? Psychologist Kurt Lewin states, “Behavior (B) is the function (f) of people (P) in their environment (E).” Environments can change both socially and physically, and while peer pressure isn’t inherently harmful—it’s problematic when we’re surrounded by the wrong influences.

Psychologist Solomon Asch’s famous experiment on conformity shows how powerful group influence can be. In the study, participants were asked to compare lines on cards and identify the matching lengths. The test was straightforward, but there was a twist—unknown to the real participants, the others in the room were actors instructed to give wrong answers. As the actors’ answers drifted further from the truth, many of the real participants began to doubt themselves and conform to the incorrect choices, even against their own better judgment. This experiment reveals our natural tendency to seek acceptance and follow the majority, especially when under pressure to belong.

Graphic source and original article can be found here.

In modern society, this tendency to conform is amplified by the voices we encounter on social media. It’s here that we often find ourselves influenced by the opinions and personas we see daily, but it’s crucial to remember that not all voices are created equal. Ask yourself: When you’re consuming content, are you following entertainers or educators? The distinction matters. Entertainers may offer excitement and engagement, but educators and scholarly voices provide depth and insight, often grounded in research rather than driven by sponsorship checks. In times of social or political significance, it is the latter that helps us make informed, thoughtful decisions.

Capitalism often thrives on isolation, encouraging us to prioritize individual achievement over collective welfare. The more isolated we feel, the easier it is to be influenced by the loudest or most persuasive voices, regardless of their integrity. When we surround ourselves with purpose-driven, trusted individuals and elevate the scholars over the celebrities, we strengthen our ability to think critically and act collectively.

This collective dialogue can lead to a more informed electorate, where people base their voting decisions on shared values, local needs, and trusted information sources rather than on isolated viewpoints or one-sided narratives.

I want us to build a community that values democratic engagement at the local level annually, not just every four years for the presidency. Community groups—whether local, digital, or cultural—can also mobilize resources, organize events, and provide education to ensure that members have the information they need to make empowered voting decisions. I encourage you to seek them out. Find a home in a group that acknowledges and honors your identity; I am not restricting to age, sex, gender, sexuality, race and disability status. (Shout out to the New Yorkers who joined me in voting yes to proposition one!)  Do you identify as a plant mom? Join a community garden. Are you into science fantasy? Check out your local library. Craft beer enthusiast? Local breweries often host cool events. Anchor yourself in something, you’ll need it in the years to come. 

So, if your friends jumped off a bridge, would you follow? When you’re surrounded by voices that foster genuine learning, purposeful connection, and collective progress, the answer just might be yes. Because with the right influences, you won’t jump blindly, but rather leap with intention. 

Until next time,

Stef