First-day demonstration for social psychology courses

We describe an obedience demonstration that introduces social psychology in a new and interesting way. After students came to believe that a confederate was the course instructor, they complied with his request to provide him with personal information. Subsequent lecture introduced students to several key concepts, including obedience, stereotyping, conformity, mindlessness, deception, and research ethics. Students indicated they found the demonstration enjoyable, interesting, informative, and a worthwhile use of class time. Furthermore, students agreed that because of the demonstration, they looked forward to taking the course. Although the demonstration employed deception, students indicated that it was justified and that they were treated in an ethical manner.