In 1964, a 28-year-old woman named Kitty Genovese was attacked and killed outside her apartment in Queens, New York. According to reports, dozens of neighbors either witnessed the attack or heard her cries. But no one attempted to intervene or call for help. This story became the hallmark example in social psychology of the bystander effect—the diffusion of responsibility that occurs when people fail to act because they believe someone else will. In the Genovese case, witnesses may have been reluctant to get involved, assuming someone else in the apartment complex or nearby would help.
I think about this phenomenon frequently. With the proliferation of social media and a camera in everyone’s hand, we’ve all seen a disturbing trend reminiscent of the bystander effect. A person may be in harm’s way or the victim of an attack, and people simply stand around and record it. To me, this represents a troubling evolution from bystanding to voyeurism—a relinquishing of responsibility in the face of impending tragedy or victimization for entertainment’s sake.
But I believe we have the power to change this trend. By choosing to act and take responsibility, each of us can push back against the bystander effect and step forward when it matters most. We can demonstrate to others how our humanity can shine bright when we bring light into the darkness rather than waiting for someone else to do so.
I remember the flood of 2008 in Columbus, Indiana, and how our entire community came together in big and small ways to help each other. After heavy rainfall, rivers and streams swelled, overwhelming drainage systems and dams, leading to significant flooding of homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. In the aftermath, local authorities and volunteers of all ages, ethnicities, denominations and religions, and political persuasion from Columbus and nearby communities joined forces for cleanup, donated supplies, and supported those affected. For all that our community is known for, that was one of our greatest moments. There has been no greater testament to our humanity and solidarity than the way we loved and cared for each other during that crisis.
That is just one example I have witnessed over the years of people using their unique gifts and strengths to help those in need. Whether it’s assisting a neighbor, donating money, volunteering for cleanup efforts in hurricane-impacted areas, or caring for those who have lost a loved one, we can all act and take responsibility in big and small ways to make an impact on others’ lives and our communities.
Question
What small action can you take today to make a positive difference in someone else’s life or in your community?
Peace,
Brandon