The Impact of a Neuroscientist's Insights on Obedience in South Korea
January 30, 2025 - 14:23
Ryu Hyuk, former inspector general of the Ministry of Justice, was having what he described as an "exceedingly tranquil day" on the evening of December 3, 2024. However, his peaceful day took a turn as he delved into the recent discussions surrounding a neuroscientist's book that explores the psychology behind obeying unlawful orders. The book has sparked significant interest in South Korea, particularly in light of the country's historical context and experiences with authority.
As citizens reflect on their own experiences with compliance and authority figures, the book's themes resonate deeply. It examines the psychological mechanisms that lead individuals to follow orders, even when those orders conflict with their moral beliefs. This exploration has ignited conversations about accountability, ethical decision-making, and the role of authority in society.
Ryu, like many others, is contemplating the implications of these insights on contemporary issues in governance and social justice. The dialogue surrounding the book is not only timely but essential for fostering a more aware and responsible society.
MORE NEWS
July 9, 2026 - 20:01
3 Habits To Replace Your Over-Apologizing Tendency, By A PsychologistSaying sorry for every small inconvenience might feel polite, but psychologists warn it can actually undermine your credibility and relationships. Over-apologizing signals low self-worth and shifts...
July 9, 2026 - 14:56
Trail Therapy: The Role of Sport PsychologyAt this year`s Western States 100, one crew member had a unique set of goals that had nothing to do with their own finish time. Their objectives were clear: help as many runners as possible work...
July 8, 2026 - 19:15
Why We View the Past as Better Than the PresentNostalgia offers a warm, familiar comfort, a mental escape to a time when things felt simpler. But this rosy view of the past comes with a hidden cost. Psychologists call it the `reminiscence bump,...
July 8, 2026 - 03:28
The psychology of luck: Why some people seem to get lucky more oftenMost people have looked at someone successful and assumed they were simply in the right place at the right time. It is an easy conclusion to make. But a growing body of research suggests that luck...