This volume provides an integrated view of different manifestations of social influence grounded in socio-political concerns. It brings together a range of modalities of influence - such as crowds, leadership, norm formation, conformity, obedience, resistance, and persuasion - in a unified diagnostic periodic table of social influences.
The book explores the historical debates surrounding nuclear power, computing, and genetic engineering, highlighting the controversies and their societal impacts. It introduces a "pain analogy" to illustrate how public resistance influences the progress of techno-science, signaling the need for attention and response. Through this lens, the author examines how various fields confront the social-psychological challenges posed by industrial and scientific advancements, ultimately arguing that public opinion plays a crucial role in shaping modern technological development.
The book, first published in 2007, is part of the Routledge imprint under Taylor & Francis. It explores significant themes and concepts relevant to its field, providing valuable insights and analysis. The content is designed to engage readers with its depth and scholarly approach, making it a notable addition to academic literature.