Discuss the authoritarian personality as an explanation for obedience. (Total 8 marks)

The authoritarian personality is a dispositional explanation for obedience, proposed by Adorno et al. It suggests that individuals with rigid beliefs, high respect for authority, and hostility toward those they perceive as inferior are more likely to obey authority figures. This personality is thought to result from strict and punitive parenting during childhood. Adorno’s research using the F-scale found a positive correlation between authoritarian traits and obedience.

One strength of the authoritarian personality explanation is its empirical support. (Point) Adorno’s research showed that individuals with higher F-scale scores were more likely to obey authority figures. (Because) This supports the validity of the theory by linking personality traits to obedience. (Why) However, the correlation does not imply causation. (Counterargument) Other factors, such as upbringing or situational pressures, could influence both authoritarian traits and obedience, limiting the explanation’s conclusiveness.

A limitation is its inability to explain obedience in large groups. (Point) Events like the Holocaust involved widespread obedience, which cannot be explained by all participants having an authoritarian personality. (Because) This is problematic because it suggests that situational factors, such as group dynamics, play a more significant role in obedience. (Why) However, the theory remains useful for explaining individual differences in obedience levels. (Counterargument)