In describing his experiences during the decision-making process that preceded the disastrous Bay of Pigs invasion, Kennedy's adviser, Arthur Schlesinger, reported that although he was opposed to the invasion, he didn't speak out because "others would regard it as presumptuous of him, a college professor, to take issue with august heads of government institutions." This example best reflects __________ as a symptom of groupthink.
A) group members' sense of invulnerability
B) decisive leaders' refusal to solicit other points of view
C) self-censorship in the interest of avoiding criticism
D) the isolation of groups

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The example best reflects self-censorship in the interest of avoiding criticism, as Schlesinger refrained from speaking out because he feared being seen as presumptuous and potentially criticized by others in the group. This is a common symptom of groupthink, in which members of a group suppress their own dissenting opinions in order to maintain harmony and conformity within the group.

In Describing His Experiences During the Decision-Making Process That Preceded