Definition: Bandwagon effect (follower effect)

‍The Bandwagon Effect — also known as follower effect — describes the tendency to subscribe to the opinion or decision of the majority, regardless of one's own original convictions. This is often done unconsciously out of a desire for social acceptance or from the assumption that the majority is right.

Examples of the Bandwagon Effect

Do you know that?

Everyone in the recruiting team agrees: The first candidate was the most convincing. That's not your opinion at all, but you still agree.

What is the reason for that?

This is due to the follower effect

The bandwagon effect (also: follower effect) refers to the habit of adapting one's own behavior and opinion to the majority.

Why On the one hand We like to be right. In doing so, we are informed by our social group about what is right and acceptable. On the other hand, we want Don't feel excluded. Accepting the majority opinion is an easy way to ensure social acceptance within the group.

Sources

• Mallinson DJ, Hatemi PK. The effects of information and social conformity on opinion change. PLoS One. 2018; 13 (5)
• Schmitt‐Beck R. Bandwagon effect. The International Encyclopedia of Political Communication. 2015:1-5.