Cyndi and I were sitting in a hotel room recently (we were house hunting in Richmond…more on that later) and I was surfing the 'net. I came across this article on group think. It was an interesting read. Here are some quotes:
The world’s path to success is changing fast. In the new 21st-century institution – be it a school, church, corporation or government — hard work and dedication won't suffice. Getting ahead in the global community will mean compromise, conformity, group thinking and submission to the ground rules of the consensus process.
Today, a more sophisticated version of this brainwashing process drives the social transformation. Governments, schools, businesses and service organizations — even churches — are using it to mold compliant citizens and group thinkers. It usually serves their purpose, for it helps root out individualism and the "intolerant" attitudes that could bring conflict and division. When bonded to the group and trained in the new relational rules, few dare offend the majority by take a contrary stand.
Notice those last few words: "…few dare offend the majority by take a contrary stand." What makes it possible to take the stand? Knowing you are right. Knowing why you are right. This is why it is critically important that we as Christians know the Bible, believe the Bible, and know why we believe the Bible. If we stand firm on our "firm foundation," we can once again influence our society.