10 Messed Up Social Experiments That Should Have Never Happened

We would have been better off if these experiments didn't happen.

1. The Milgram Experiment Replication in France (2010)

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock.

Replicating Stanley Milgram's contentious obedience study from the 1960s, this experiment aimed to unravel the depths of human obedience to authority figures. People were instructed to administer electric shocks to another person, highlighting the ethical concerns and raising questions about the psychological harm inflicted upon them.

2. The Zimbardo's Prison Experiment (2018)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

In 1971, the Zimbardo Prison Experiment simulated a prison environment to explore the impact of perceived power on individuals. However, the study faced severe criticism due to ethical concerns and the mistreatment of participants, as it inadvertently subjected them to potential psychological harm without adequate oversight.

3. The Facebook Emotional Contagion Study (2014)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Manipulating the news feeds of over 600,000 users, Facebook conducted a controversial study to observe emotional responses. This experiment ignited a firestorm of controversy surrounding issues of informed consent and the potential manipulation of users' emotions without their explicit knowledge or consent.

4. The Tuskegee Syphilis Study (1932-1972)

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock.

The Tuskegee Syphilis Study, conducted by the U.S. Public Health Service, is a dark chapter in medical research. Lasting for four decades, the study withheld treatment for syphilis from African American men, even after an effective cure was discovered. This unethical research violated participants' rights, raised ethical questions about informed consent, and highlighted racial discrimination in medical studies.

5. The Obedience to Authority Experiment (2009)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Building upon Stanley Milgram's original research, this experiment explored participants' obedience to authority figures. In a distressing scenario, participants were instructed to administer electric shocks to others based on authoritative commands. The replication study once again highlighted the enduring ethical concerns associated with this type of research.

6. The Monster Study 2.0 (2001)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

A replication of the original Monster Study conducted in 1939, the Monster Study 2.0 aimed to examine the effects of negative labeling on speech fluency. Children were labeled as stutterers and non-stutterers, raising ethical concerns regarding potential psychological harm inflicted on the participants through negative labeling.

7. The Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes Experiment (1968)

Attractive Woman
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Jane Elliott conducted this experiment to educate students about discrimination and prejudice based on eye color. Participants were segregated based on their eye color and subjected to differential treatment, unveiling the profound impact of discrimination and challenging their perspectives on prejudice.

8. The Rat Park Experiment (1978)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

The Rat Park Experiment explored drug addiction in rats by providing them with an enriched environment. Challenging the prevailing view that the pharmacological properties of drugs solely determined addiction, the study revealed the significant role of social and environmental factors in addiction.

9. The Asch Conformity Experiments (1951)

Group of friends in modern art exhibition gallery hall contemplating artwork. Abstract painting

Examining how individuals conform to group opinions, the Asch Conformity Experiments exposed participants to lines of varying lengths and asked them to identify the longest line. The study unveiled the powerful influence of social pressure on individuals to conform, even when their own judgments contradicted their perceptions.

10. The Third Wave Experiment (1967)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Conducted by high school teacher Ron Jones, the Third Wave Experiment aimed to demonstrate the allure and dangers of fascism. This classroom experiment showcased how easily individuals could be influenced and swept up in group ideologies, emphasizing the significance of critical thinking and resistance to authoritarianism.

10 Celebrities Who Are Distractingly Attractive

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

In the realm of celebrities, certain individuals' attractiveness transcends the screen, captivating the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. These stars possess a magnetic presence, leaving a lasting impression with their striking looks and undeniable charm. Recently, people shared such celebrities on an online platform whose sheer attractiveness is nothing short of distracting. 

Ready to make your first budget?

Enter your email and get the free template


“No Boomer – We Don’t Want You Here” These 10 States Are Not For Boomers Nor Retirees

Image Credit: Adobe Stock.

If you're thinking about making a big move in retirement, it's important to consider what characteristics you want in your new home and which ones to avoid at all costs. Here is a list of the top 10 worst states to retire in.

“Businesses Are Desperate” 12 Jobs Employers Can’t Fill No Matter How High The Pay

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock.

Nowadays, in the job market, opportunities are increasing. Because many industries continuously advance and expand their business, it creates many job vacancies. Same time a need for suitable candidates. Let us discuss a few job vacancies that often remain empty.

“If He Does That He’s Hot” 10 Traits That Make Women Go Crazy For A Guy

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock.

Looks will only get you so far. What really makes a man attractive besides his outward appearance?

15 American Cities That Disappoint Visitors So Much They Wish They Never Went

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Some first trips are the best memories and once-in-a-lifetime experiences; some are just okay. Still, a few unlucky ones visit places that destroy their vacation, and they desire to undo that experience. Here are some of the American cities that people have visited and wished never had done that.

[mashshare]

How I make $11,000 per year renting out my spare rooms?

Get access to my FREE guide now.