Source: The Post and Courier, June 6, 2008. “Hit-run response prompts uproar” Associated Press
Summary: A 78-year-old man was the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Hartford, Connecticut. The man lay in a busy street, but no one went to him to see if he was dead. Four people called 911, but no one gave him any assistance. The police chief of Hartford said that the citizens have “no moral compass”.
Application: People saw what happened, but also saw someone on a cell phone, and assumed that 911 was notified. Consequently, they did not do anything to help the man. In bystander effect, the chances of someone helping during an emergency are reduced when there are a lot of people around. Many pedestrians and motorists witnessed the hit-and-run, but no one came to his assistance, and only four people called 911. This is classic bystander effect.
1 comment:
Jonathan Wamsley
It is sad that people do not stop to think "What if I was that person laying on the ground to die." I know that I would contact help b/c I would want someone to do the same for me. People should not assume that someone did the right thing and called for help. Pick up your phone and dial 911, it will take just a few minutes to report the accident. Just imagine the amazing feeling you would have had knowing that you saved that guys life.
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