Which term refers to the mode of thinking that prioritizes harmony over realistic evaluation in group decision-making?

The term that refers to the mode of thinking prioritizing harmony over realistic evaluation in group decision-making is groupthink. Groupthink occurs when the desire for consensus and cohesiveness within a group leads members to suppress dissenting viewpoints, overlook potential problems, and minimize conflict. This phenomenon can result in poor decision-making as critical thinking is sacrificed in favor of maintaining harmony and agreement among group members.

In groupthink, individuals may refrain from expressing their beliefs or doubts due to fear of disrupting the group's unity. This can cause the group to fail to evaluate alternatives properly, leading to judgments that are not well thought out or that ignore crucial information. The historical examples of groupthink, such as the Bay of Pigs invasion, illustrate how prioritizing group consensus over objective analysis can have detrimental consequences.

The other terms describe different social phenomena. Group polarization refers to the tendency of group discussions to amplify the initial leanings of individual members, leading to more extreme positions. Social loafing is the tendency for individuals to exert less effort when working in a group compared to working alone. Collective efficacy refers to a group's shared belief in its capability to achieve goals and execute tasks effectively. Each of these concepts applies to group dynamics but does not specifically capture the aspect of prioritizing harmony over