"I was just following the orders."
From Abu Ghraib to Nazi Germany, this Nuremberg Defense has been heard throughout history. It also sparked the curiosity of psychologist Dr. Stanley Milgram, which led to his Obedience to Authority experiment.
The test began in 1961 and the purpose was to examine if human beings would follow the instructions of an authority figure, even if the commands were morally questionable.
When news about prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib in Iraq hit the presses in 2004, many experts referred to social psychologist Stanley Milgram’s obedience experiments as a way to explain the behavior of modern soldiers. It was clear that Milgram’s research about obeying authority is still relevant in today’s world.
The new DVD, "Great Minds of the 20th Century: Stanley Milgram” features a DVD with edited teaching video clips and an easy-to-access PDF file that offers discussion questions and specific activities that will enhance student participation in the classroom and make it convenient for instructors to explain concepts.
Download the outline (PDF)
This experience provides learners with a unique perspective into the life and work of Milgram. The DVD chapters allow instructors to quickly select video segments that include clips from Milgram's six films:
The DVD also features Milgram’s wife, Alexandra, who shares personal stories of how his friends and family shaped his work.
Download the press release (PDF).
Penn State Media Sales is an exclusive distributor of renowned educational films contributed by postsecondary institutions, individual academic professionals, and commerical distributors.
The DVD set is available online for $350 and runs approximately three hours.
For questions or additonal information, contact Penn State Media Sales at MediaSales@outreach.psu.edu or 1-800-770-2111.
Penn State Media Sales
is an exclusive distributor of renowned educational films contributed by post secondary institutions, individual academic professionals, and commercial distributors.
Order media online.
Request footage rights.
Penn State Media Sales
171 Outreach Building
University Park, PA 16802
Email: mediasales@outreach.psu.edu
Phone: (800) 770-2111
Fax: (814) 865-3172