Rev. Samuel Manful has urged people in schools, homes and churches to develop independent thinking and avoid blindly following others, stressing that popularity does not necessarily mean a person is right.
Speaking on managing herd mentality on Nyansapo Fie, Plan B FM’s family, relationship and lifestyle programme, hosted by Ohene Kinnah, he explained that herd mentality occurs when individuals follow the crowd without considering whether the decisions or actions will benefit them.
He noted that unlike animals, humans have the ability to think, make choices and take personal decisions. According to him, God created everyone with a specific plan and purpose, and blindly following others can prevent individuals from discovering and fulfilling that purpose.
Rev. Manful identified social inclusion, family conformity, religious conformity and digital and social media influence as some areas where herd mentality manifests. He added that peer pressure and fear contribute to the behaviour, emphasising that it affects both children and adults. He also observed that some children struggle to make personal decisions because they depend heavily on their parents’ approval.
He cautioned people against following religious leaders and church practices without careful consideration, noting that not every church they attend or pastor they encounter should automatically be trusted. He further warned against manipulating church members into giving beyond their means and encouraged individuals to recognise and make an impact through the purpose God has placed in them.
By: Lydia Owusu
Discussion about this post