1. Definition of Groupthink
 
 

"A mode of thinking in which group members' premature striving for agreement somehow overrides their ability to realistically appraise alternative courses of action."
 
 

2. Symptoms of Groupthink
 

    A. Shared illusion of invulnerability
 

    B. Collective efforts to rationalize
 

    C. Unquestioned belief in the group's inherent morality
 

    D. Shared stereotypes of rivals
 

    E. Self-censorship
 

    F. Shared illusion of unanimity
 

    G. Direct pressure against dissenters
 
 

    H. Emergence of self-appointed mindguards
 
 
 
 

3. Suggestions to reduce or block groupthink

    A. Status conscious members
 
 

    B. Leader who encourages critical thinking
 

    C. Assign role of critical evaluator
 
 

    D. Devil's advocate
 

    E. Outsider(s) to evaluate decision process
 

    F. Divide group into subgroups