Why Good People Do Bad Things: The Hidden Psychology of Roles, Authority & Morality

Running Man Self Regulation Skills Project

Ep 114. What Hidden Roles Control Your Mind? The Psychology Behind Our Darkest Decisions

Why do good people do bad things? It’s not always about morality—it’s about identity. Specifically, the unconscious roles we play every day: parent, leader, employee, follower, rebel. These roles aren't just titles—they’re invisible cages shaping our decisions, behaviors, and beliefs.

🎭 In this eye-opening episode, we uncover the hidden psychology behind social roles—and how they quietly influence our most ethical (and unethical) choices.

From the Stanford Prison Experiment to Milgram’s shocking obedience studies, history proves one thing: Ordinary people can do unthinkable things when they surrender to authority, groupthink, or institutional roles.

🔥 You’ll Learn:

• The difference between folkways, mores, and social norms
• How role identity can override your moral compass
• Why diffusion of responsibility leads to dangerous choices
• How to recognize when a role no longer aligns with your true self
• Simple mindset shifts to reclaim personal freedom and ethical power

This episode dives deep into behavioral psychology, moral philosophy, and social influence—giving you tools to live with greater self-awareness, autonomy, and inner strength.

🔎 Whether you're a leader, parent, activist, or simply human, this is the truth you can’t afford to ignore.

🎯 Perfect for Fans of:

• The Psychology of Evil by Philip Zimbardo
• Hidden Brain podcast
• The Diary of a CEO
• The Huberman Lab
• Jordan Peterson
• Simon Sinek
• Brené Brown

🔔 LISTEN NOW:

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🎙 Subscribe for weekly deep dives into the human psyche, decision-making, and the invisible forces shaping your life. Take care and walk well.

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Support the show

intro outro music for episodes 1 through 111 done by Jonathan Dominguez Rogue musician. He can be found on youtube at Lazyman2303.

New musical intro and outro music created by Ed Fernandez guitarist extraordinaire. To get in contact with Ed please send me an email at runningmangetskillsproject@gamil,com and I will forward him the contact.

Donations are not expected but most certainly appreciated. Any funds will go toward further development of the podcast for equipment as we we grow the podcast. Many thanks in advance.

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