Group Identity May Prevent Human Stampedes

Large gatherings are usually peaceful but sometimes turn unruly with deadly consequences. Last year’s stampede during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia, for example, left more than 2,000 people dead. Psychologists say understanding how and why crowds sometimes behave as they do, and controlling them, involves recognizing people's capacity for self-regulation. Saudi authorities say they have spent more than $300 million to improve the safety of pilgrims during the annual visit to the Muslim...

© La Voix de l'Amérique - lundi 18 janvier 2016