There was a study that examined how male chimps were willing to "pay" (by sacrificing juice rewards) to look at images of either female chimps' hindquarters or high-status males. The implication is that primates—ourselves included—are wired to be drawn to both reproductive cues and social hierarchy.

Jason Christoff, Freedom From Self-Sabotage Master Coach, comments on the study that, “..this basic psychology reflected in the mind control tenet that prestige paralyses judgment.”

The idea here is that when someone is perceived as prestigious or high-status, people (or primates) often suspend their critical thinking. Instead of objectively evaluating a person’s actions, ideas, or statements, they instinctively defer to them simply because of their status.

What’s the danger?

Well, mindless admiration for one, where we automatically trust or agree with a celebrity or authority without questioning their credibility.  Also it’s easier to jump on a bandwagon when a high-status person endorses it because we believe it must be of value.  And because our brain is wired for efficiency, if someone has social prestige, we might assume they also have knowledge or wisdom beyond their expertise.

Is our fascination with celebrities then instinctual?  What happens when we skip critical examination of contributions or character?

Aha! ~ Even the tallest of pedestals will crumble under the weight of truth.

Those who resist the pull of prestige tend to be more independent, resilient, and capable of making informed choices.

True power doesn’t come from standing in someone else’s shadow – it comes from thinking for yourself. Celebrities, elites and authorities may capture attention but it doesn’t mean they deserve your worship or trust. 

Check in with yourself to ask, “Just because they are an influencer or leader, are they qualified or am I accepting public perception?”  When you see through the illusion you claim your own authority.  And when you do, you won’t be looking up at pedestals, you’ll be standing on your own.