The obedience study conducted by Stanley Milgram has become world famous. Explain, in detail, the procedures that Milgram used in his study and then evaluate his results. What conclusions did Milgram reach? How have critics reacted to his research?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: A good answer will include the following key points.
? Each subject was assigned the role of "teacher" and was to use punishment in the form of electric shock when the "learner" (actually a confederate of the researcher) made an error.
? Shock level was increased by 15 volts after each error up to a maximum of 450 volts.
? Every subject administered some shock and about two-thirds went all the way to 450 volts.
? There was no difference between males and females, between different age groups, or people from different walks of life.
? Many protested, but continued after the researcher encouraged them to continue.
? Milgram concluded that obedience was a function of the situation rather than of the personalities of the subjects.
? Critics consider the study unethical because subjects were deceived, many subjects suffered emotional pain, and the situation was not realistic.
? Critics also objected to the parallel Milgram drew between his subjects and the Nazis.