Which statement best reflects the agency theory's claim about obedience?

Which statement best reflects the agency theory's claim about obedience?

• A. People obey when they believe the authority will take responsibility for consequences
• B. People always resist authority to avoid responsibility
• C. People only obey when there is material reward
• D. People obey regardless of responsibility beliefs

Answer: (A)

Agency theory explains obedience as a shift in responsibility. People go along with orders because they see themselves as instruments of an authority and expect that the authority will take responsibility for the consequences. This reduces their own moral burden, making harmful actions feel less like their own decisions. When someone believes the authority will assume responsibility, obedience is more likely. If the authority is not seen as responsible, personal accountability rises and resistance or withdrawal becomes more likely. This is why the statement that obedience increases when the individual believes the authority will bear responsibility best captures the theory.

Agency theory explains obedience as a shift in responsibility. People go along with orders because they see themselves as instruments of an authority and expect that the authority will take responsibility for the consequences. This reduces their own moral burden, making harmful actions feel less like their own decisions. When someone believes the authority will assume responsibility, obedience is more likely. If the authority is not seen as responsible, personal accountability rises and resistance or withdrawal becomes more likely. This is why the statement that obedience increases when the individual believes the authority will bear responsibility best captures the theory.