Leverages credibility to validate user decisions
Risks discouraging exploration of alternative solutions
Authority Bias describes the tendency to follow instructions from authority figures, even when they conflict with personal beliefs. Stanley Milgram's 1963 study involved participants delivering what they believed were painful electric shocks to others under the direction of an authoritative figure. The research aimed to understand obedience and its psychological underpinnings, particularly when orders seemed unethical.
The study revealed that individuals often obey authority despite moral objections, highlighting the power of authoritative cues. This principle applies to trust signals in UX, such as certifications and endorsements.
1.
Leverage authority signals to establish credibility.
2.
Maintain ethical influence without manipulation.
3.
Attribute information to trusted sources transparently.
