What is Abilene Paradox ?
The ‘Abilene Paradox’ is the phenomenon where the collective decision of a group is in direct conflict with the decision of its individual members.
It was introduced by Jerry Harvey, Professor of Management at George Washington University.
This phenomenon happens due to the innate human need of belonging to a group and the desire to conform socially. Hence, even if the individuals feel that the collective decision is incorrect, they will not reject it for fear of being isolated.
The management and higher-ups in a group should make sure that an ‘Abilene Paradox’ doesn’t occur as it leads to poor decisions which will affect the company in the long run.
