---
title: Stanford Prison Experiment
created: 2024-12-06T15:34:05
modified: 2025-08-20T06:21:56
---

In 1971, Dr. Philip Zimbardo conducted a psychological study famously known as the “[Stanford Prison Experiment](https://exhibits.stanford.edu/spe).”

This experiment revealed _how ordinary, well-intentioned individuals could be influenced by situational forces to commit harmful actions_, and _how mentally healthy participants could develop pathological reactions_.

It highlighted the profound impact of social situations on human behavior.