Double Exposure: How Social Psychology Fell in Love with the Movies

Double Exposure explores the role of film in shaping social psychology's landmark postwar experiments, such as Milgram's Obedience Experiments, the Stanford Prison Experiment, and others, and recovers a new set of narratives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2022
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Double Exposure delves into the profound impact of film on the landmark postwar experiments in social psychology. It reveals that, under certain conditions, ordinary individuals can be coerced into committing acts of shocking violence against fellow citizens, adopting dehumanizing roles as prison guards, and turning a blind eye to the needs of strangers. However, the story goes beyond these headlines. The documentaries purportedly used as evidence in these experiments played a crucial role in capturing the public's imagination. Did they offer a justification for the actions of twentieth-century humanity? By examining the dramaturgy, staging, and filming of these experiments, including Milgram's Obedience Experiments, the Stanford Prison Experiment, and many others, Double Exposure uncovers a fresh set of narratives.

The film explores the power of storytelling and visual representation to shape our understanding of these controversial experiments. It raises questions about the ethical implications of manipulating human subjects and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. Through meticulous research and expert analysis, Double Exposure offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between film, society, and the human psyche.

One of the key themes of the film is the role of obedience and authority. The experiments conducted in the postwar period sought to understand how individuals are influenced by those in positions of power, and how they are willing to comply with orders even if they go against their moral convictions. The film examines the techniques used by the experimenters, such as the use of authority figures, the creation of a sense of urgency, and the use of rewards and punishments, to manipulate the participants' behavior.

Another theme is the impact of social context on behavior. The experiments were conducted in a range of settings, from military bases to university campuses, and the film explores how the social environment can influence individuals' willingness to engage in harmful behavior. It examines the role of group dynamics, peer pressure, and social norms in shaping individuals' actions and explores how these factors can be manipulated to achieve specific outcomes.

Double Exposure also raises important questions about the nature of reality and the role of the camera in capturing it. The film examines the ways in which film can shape our perception of events, and how it can be used to manipulate our emotions and beliefs. It explores the ethical implications of using film as evidence in scientific experiments and the potential for bias and distortion in the representation of reality.

Overall, Double Exposure is a compelling and thought-provoking film that offers a fresh perspective on the landmark postwar experiments in social psychology. It challenges our assumptions about human nature, the power of storytelling, and the ethical implications of scientific research. Through its meticulous exploration of the dramaturgy, staging, and filming of these experiments, the film provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex relationship between film, society, and the human psyche.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978809451