The creating force of minority dissent: A motivated information processing perspective

Abstract

Sometimes social influence processes are the driving force behind the creation of new products, services, and modes of conduct. In this paper we argue that minority dissent and its ensuing influence provides an example par excellence, and we reviewed and interpret findings on minority influence and creativity in terms of the motivated information processing in groups model (MIP-G model; De Dreu et al., 2008). In essence, we argue that minority dissent produces creativity and innovation when majority members have (a) high rather than low epistemic motivation and concomitant willingness to engage in deep and deliberate processing of information, and (b) a pro-social motivation and focus on group successes rather than personal outcomes. Evidence from both laboratory and organizational field research is discussed and practical implications as well as avenues for further research are highlighted.