The Bystander Effect: More is Less & Why Big is Dumb

We all think that bigger is better. That we are safer in crowds. The wisdom of crowds. But I’ve come to the conclusion that this just isn’t true. 

It’s a myth put to rest by the Kitty Genovese murder back in 1964. She was attacked for over an hour without anyone in the apartment complex doing anything to intercede. Even though many people reported that they heard it all happen afterwards. Reports though were unclear as some people did say they tried to call the police. This is before 911 was implemented. The general public was appalled of course. 

It’s called the Bystander Effect. Defined as: “the inhibiting influence of the presence of others on the willingness to help someone in need.”

It’s due to not wanting to make a mistake or be seen as foolish in case it’s just a misunderstanding. Or more likely it’s not their issue, that someone else will take charge or intercede as there are so many others around. 

In fact it’s better if there is only one person or two people around. They feel direct responsibility. Or “ownership”.

But there is a way around this. If you find yourself in trouble but conscious, point directly to someone “you in the blue jacket call 911 and you in the red coat come help me or whatever.” People need to be directed and this may jar them out of their daze. 

So besides the safety and security aspects. We see something of this effect in very large impersonal organizations. This is also why most big companies in the Fortune 500 and organizations like the United Nations and most NGOs are so useless and ineffective. There is usually very little accountability from their employees because it’s so easy to hide in such a big morass of people. 

Also in big companies, it’s so much easier to think someone else or some other department will take care of an issue. Or worse you kick it over the wall to them. Ownership and accountability is never clear and the attitude of “It’s not my problem” is rife.  

You just can’t do this in a small startup. Well you can but you probably won’t be there for much longer if it happens too often. Additionally, in small organizations, it’s pretty easy to find out who is doing work, who is doing good work and who basically sucks. It’s transparent. Yes most startups are dysfunctional but it’s transparent. 

Which leads us to the ultimate secret to career, entrepreneurial and life success. You have to take ownership for everything whatever the situation. Good and bad. Find problems and fix them. Take action, and preferably thoughtful, decisive action.  Don’t be a bystander.