Groupthink: Leadership or Followership?

Groupthink is an idea that can be very easy to fall victim to, but can also be extremely difficult to detect. As demonstrated in Irving Janis’ chapter, “Groupthink,” this can occur in even the brightest minds. This brings up the question, whose fault is it when groupthink appears? Did John F. Kennedy’s actions lead to the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion, or was it his cabinet’s fault for not stopping him? Arguments can be made for the cases of both followers and leaders.
First of all, Kennedy, as a good leader, should have had the ability to realize that nobody was giving a serious rebuttal to the plan of attack. As a leader, one should be open to opposing ideas, and even should encourage people to try and find counter-points. However, as Janis explained, when people came to voice their opposition at cabinet meetings, such as Senator J. William Fulbright, Kennedy gave no opportunity to discuss the new opinion. This seemed to work against those whose opinions differed, and deterred most people from choosing to voice dissent.
However, the others in the cabinet also seemed to be responsible for the groupthink. Janis introduced the idea of “mindguards.” People were so focused on the success of the plan and the reputation of the president, that they pressured others to remain silent. The mood surrounding the Bay of Pigs invasion was so optimistic and positive, people were scared to change that. And this is where the discussion of being a good follower comes into play. Followers cannot be scared to disagree with leaders. They must push their ideas if they believe them to be valuable.