Six-packs vs. Outcasts--interesting psychology
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Six-packs vs. Outcasts--interesting psychology
Realfan | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 10:45 am     When I was watching the show last night, I began thinking a little more about why some contestants in these reality shows gravitate immediately into an alliance ("in group") and others remain hanging on the periphery. I think there is an interesting psychology at work. Some people feel more comfortable among people they perceive as "equals," and in a recognizable group. If there isn't a pre-existing clique to join, they'll start one. The "non-joiners" are either more shy, more laid back, or more inclined to think of themselves as unique individuals. So we have "outsiders"--even though they're equal in number--who are not in a strength position because they haven't formed an alliance (clique) right away. In other words, the typical high school dynamics are at work, but they leave the less popular "kids" at a disadvantage. I thought it was interesting that Gerry realized he was starting to pick his luau team based on popularity, then changed his tune. Being about his age myself, I was shocked he could still be influenced by such things, but then I'm not in the competitive environment of the game. Sure, it's natural for people to want to belong, but who says the "in group" is any better than anyone else? It's a self-imposed constriction on all sides. They AREN'T any better; they only think they are, and the Ousiders buy into thinking that, too. The Outsiders rarely realize they have power in numbers, if they can bring their individual outlooks together for strategic reasons. The only time I saw this happen (finally!) was on Survivor 4, when the outsider majority FINALLY banded together to oust the Alliance. I stood up and cheered!! Moral of the story? If you recognize yourself as the Outsider type, push past that in the beginning to identify fellow outsiders and form a working strategic alliance based on mutual gain against the "adversary"--the group that excludes you. Or get picked off in turn. |
Kalekona | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 10:50 am     you mean Marcellas not gerry when they were picking teams. Your right on the money I think with your view. You want them to realize this so bad it hurts sometimes <and I end up screaming at the feeds or tv> numbers wise it will be 5 to 6 not a big deal and should an outsider when head of HOH the 6 votes will become 4 complete power shift, especially if an outsider also gets veto power. |
Bastable | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 10:53 am     Every American is rigorously trained for four solid years to behave in this manner, to kowtow to the pretty people, to think "different" means "unworthy," to privately reinforce feelings of self-disgust, to curry favor by treating others with callous disrespect. Every American is brainwashed over time to learn how to appraise other human beings like they would appraise a consumer product. Where does this learning occur? It's called high school. |
Amac | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 10:58 am     Reminds me of "Revenge of the Nerds"! |
Twiggyish | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 10:59 am     I think it starts even earlier. I observe my daughter and her peers at elementary school. Even at that age, they tend to form into groups and to make judgements. |
Crazyfan | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 11:01 am     O.k. hold on... lets all be honest here. It is human to gravitate to people that are attractive to you. However everyones idea of attractive is different. Use art as an example, I might love Moet and you might hate his works. So we have different tastes. But lets say I love Monets work but once I got to know the person that created the work, my opinion changed. As a mature adults once we get passed what attracted us to a persons looks, personality etc. then we slow down and look at what the person has on the inside. I would love to know what you all think these people have to offer each other. ie: What does Lisa do for Tonya that brings them to sllep in the same bed? |
Oregonfire | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 11:06 am     Shoot! Want to have this conversation but gotta go see a guy about a thing. |
Twiggyish | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 11:10 am     LOL O! |
Kstme | Thursday, July 18, 2002 - 11:19 am     Anyone "read" "Lord of the Flies?" (not the movies) Good post Real! |
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