Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was the original purpose of Ron Jones' experiment in the classroom?
What was the original purpose of Ron Jones' experiment in the classroom?
To explain fascism through a game
What unusual greeting did Ron Jones introduce to his students during the experiment?
What unusual greeting did Ron Jones introduce to his students during the experiment?
Ron Jones intended for his class to develop into a Fascist environment.
Ron Jones intended for his class to develop into a Fascist environment.
False
What year did the experiment take place?
What year did the experiment take place?
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The school where the experiment took place closed in _____ (year).
The school where the experiment took place closed in _____ (year).
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What was the name of the documentary made about The Wave?
What was the name of the documentary made about The Wave?
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Which publication featured Ron Jones' short story about the experiment in 1976?
Which publication featured Ron Jones' short story about the experiment in 1976?
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Who described the events as a calling that just gets louder?
Who described the events as a calling that just gets louder?
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Phil Neel was a principal member of the Third Wave experiment.
Phil Neel was a principal member of the Third Wave experiment.
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Study Notes
The Wave Experiment
- Conducted in 1967 by Ron Jones at Cubberley High School, Palo Alto, California.
- Originated from a student’s question about the potential for a Holocaust-like scenario in the U.S.
- Intended as a two-week demonstration of fascism through an educational experiment.
- Classroom environment transformed into a fascist setting; students were encouraged to relinquish personal freedoms for perceived superiority.
- Classroom conditions included straightened desks, dimmed lights, and discipline-focused lectures.
The Structure and Evolution of The Wave
- Introduction of a special greeting called "the wave" among students.
- Emphasis on principles: "discipline,” "strength through community," and "strength through action."
- Rapid escalation of participation; grew from Jones' class to over 200 students by the end of the week.
- Increasing concern as students began reporting peers who did not conform to experiment rules.
- Jones felt compelled to end the project after only four days due to the overwhelming enthusiasm and peer pressure among students.
Historical Context and Repercussions
- National controversy emerged regarding the appropriateness of exposing students to such profound themes.
- Divergent opinions formed around Jones, seen alternately as a pioneering educator or a dangerous figure.
- Highlights the unsettling potential for societal conformity and its link to historical atrocities.
Documentation and Legacy
- Limited documentation of the experiment exists; a brief mention appeared in the school's student newspaper.
- Jones reflected on The Wave as an inescapable legacy, grappling with its moral implications and the duality of good and evil.
- Philip Neel, a participant, produced a documentary titled "Lesson Plan," featuring interviews with classmates, parents, and Jones, premiered in Fall 2010.
Publication and Global Impact
- In 1976, Ron Jones published "The Third Wave" in the Whole Earth Review, later gaining international recognition and various adaptations.
- The story serves as a cautionary tale about the susceptibility of society to authoritarianism and the choices individuals face.
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Description
Explore the events surrounding the 1967 classroom experiment by Ron Jones that aimed to teach students about fascism and dictatorship. This innovative approach raises important questions about authority and compliance. Engage with key concepts and definitions related to 'The Wave' and its implications.
