groupthink

noun

group·​think ˈgrüp-ˌthiŋk How to pronounce groupthink (audio)
: a pattern of thought characterized by self-deception, forced manufacture of consent, and conformity to group values and ethics

Examples of groupthink in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Helmed by Jennifer's Body director and Yellowjackets executive producer Karyn Kusama, The Invitation serves up a brilliant exploration of existential horror intertwined with grief and mental health, all set against the backdrop of insidious manipulation via groupthink. James Mercadante, EW.com, 27 Oct. 2023 If groupthink is so bad, why do humans do it so much? Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 23 May 2023 In the past, Larsson found comfort in working in rooms packed with songwriters, letting groupthink dictate a track’s direction. Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 9 Feb. 2024 Additionally, cognitive diversity can improve decision-making by providing a wider range of perspectives and reducing groupthink. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 Leftism, according to much of the New Right, is a purely Satanic doctrine, based on nothing but groupthink and greed and a hatred for life itself. Michelle Orange, Harper's Magazine, 3 Nov. 2023 This helps decision-makers avoid the pitfalls of groupthink. Tony Butler-Sims, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2024 The recent rot of dysfunction formed on a bed of groupthink, political bias, and self-dealing. Michael McCaul, National Review, 7 Feb. 2024 There is ample evidence that deliberation can, in fact, lead to groupthink (greater conformity) or even group polarization (whereby individual beliefs are intensified). Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'groupthink.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

group entry 1 + -think (as in doublethink)

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of groupthink was in 1952

Dictionary Entries Near groupthink

Cite this Entry

“Groupthink.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groupthink. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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