Groupthink is led by the influence from authority and peers. Groups grow to think alike and become convinced there is only one “right” viewpoint. Groups think it is disloyal to take suggestions for alternatives. Groups have narrow perspective and most likely believe they are fully right.
Groupthink can be detrimental. The Columbia space shuttle disaster from 2003 is an example. There were concerns that foam had broken loose during the launch and had possibly damaged tiles on the nose. Engineers informed NASA officials suggesting that the crew should do a “space walk” to examine it. However, the team in charge did not listen to the warnings. They were convinced a piece of foam that was less than two pounds would not seriously harm the shuttle.
Groupthink can be detrimental. The Columbia space shuttle disaster from 2003 is an example. There were concerns that foam had broken loose during the launch and had possibly damaged tiles on the nose. Engineers informed NASA officials suggesting that the crew should do a “space walk” to examine it. However, the team in charge did not listen to the warnings. They were convinced a piece of foam that was less than two pounds would not seriously harm the shuttle.