herd mentality

noun phrase

Meaning

The tendency for people to mimic the behavior and thinking of a larger group, often without critical evaluation, leading to collective actions or beliefs.

Examples

  • The stock market crash was partly fueled by herd mentality, as investors panicked and sold their shares.
  • During the fashion craze, many young people adopted the same style due to herd mentality.

Synonyms: groupthink, mob mentality, bandwagon effect, conformity