College Honors Program

Perpetrators of the Holocaust in a Social Psychological Context: Contrasting Motivations

Date of Creation

5-16-2023

Document Type

Campus Access Only

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Daniel Bitran

Abstract

This thesis aims to analyze the social psychological dynamics of Holocaust perpetration amongst different actors involved. Specifically, this thesis examines the motivations of German Reserve Police Battalion members, Polish civilians, Polish Blue Police, and the Baudienst in executing the Holocaust. By comparing and contrasting the behaviors of these groups, this thesis identifies conformity as a significant motivator for acts of violence, including homicidal behaviors. Additionally, this thesis discusses the limitations of the obedience to authority theory in explaining the behaviors of these distinct groups. Finally, this thesis seeks to shed light upon the necessity of discussing Holocaust perpetration from the varying contexts of the parties involved.

Comments

Reader: Mark Hallahan

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