Recent events, from a river rescue in Worcester to a mass stabbing on a train, have sparked renewed discussion about human heroism. Accounts of bravery and selfless action often follow crises, challenging a long-held belief: that people freeze or flee in the face of danger. Emerging research and expert insights now suggest that “bystander apathy” is a misconception, and that a propensity for heroic action may be a natural tendency within us all.
Understanding the Shift in Perception
Last year, Colin McGarva’s quick thinking and bravery saved a woman from a flooding river in Worcester. His instinctive response, to dive into the dangerous waters without hesitation, embodies a recurring pattern seen in emergency situations. Similarly, the response to a recent attack on a train from Doncaster to London showcased the courage of individuals like Samir Zitouni, an LNER employee who risked his own safety to protect passengers. Zitouni’s bravery earned him praise from authorities and highlighted the potential for everyday people to act heroically.
Debunking the Bystander Effect
For years, the concept of “bystander apathy” – the idea that individuals are unlikely to intervene in emergencies when others are present – dominated our understanding of human behavior. However, modern research is revealing a different story. Experts in group behavior, like Prof. Stephen Reicher of the University of St Andrews, strongly refute this notion. Reicher’s research, drawing on incidents like the 7/7 attacks on the London Underground and the 1999 attack on the Admiral Duncan pub, demonstrated that people characteristically stay and help each other, even when facing danger.
Prof. Clifford Stott of Keele University, specializing in the psychology of crowds and group identity, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized that contemporary studies prove people are “very good at protecting themselves,” and that seemingly individual acts of heroism are underpinned by a natural unity among strangers. “Bystander apathy is a myth,” Stott stated, pointing to the increasingly evident capacity for collective action in emergencies.
A Natural Capacity for Collective Action
The findings suggest that heroic action isn’t solely the domain of exceptional individuals, but a widespread potential within ordinary people. This perspective underscores a positive aspect of the human condition and calls for society to nurture and harness this ability. With the anticipation of more frequent climate-related emergencies, Prof. Stott highlights the importance of bolstering local resilience and providing local communities with structures that facilitate and manage the desire to help.
Supporting Natural Responses
Social psychologist Prof. John Drury at the University of Sussex emphasized that first responders should support and facilitate the inherent tendency for people to group together and assist one another. He pointed to the power of language, advocating for the use of positive and unifying phrases like “the community” and “we,” to strengthen connections within groups.
Cultivating a Culture of Helpers
Dr. Gill Harrop, who leads the Bystander Intervention Programme at the University of Worcester, noted the growing trend of institutions actively fostering a culture of helpers. She cited increasing instances of bystander intervention training in schools, colleges, universities, policing, and the NHS, which is slowly creating communities of active bystanders. >“We’re seeing this happening now with bystander intervention training… creating communities of active bystanders. And that’s wonderful.”
The emerging consensus among experts is clear: far from being passive observers, people are inherently inclined to help each other in times of crisis. By understanding and supporting this natural tendency, we can build stronger, more resilient communities prepared to face future challenges
