Diffusion of responsibility

/dɪˈfjuː.ʒən əv ɹɪˌspɒn.sɪˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/ noun

Definition

The reduction in personal responsibility felt by each individual in a group, leading to inaction because each person assumes someone else will act.

Etymology

From Latin 'diffusio' (a pouring forth) + 'responsabilis' (answerable). Responsibility spreading thin across a group.

Kelly Says

Diffusion of responsibility is 'not my problem' multiplied by a crowd — when everyone thinks someone else will help, nobody does. That's why the bystander effect happens.

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