The Rational Case For One Person Making A Difference

Some people might think that one person can't make much of a difference.

Here's the thing, though: your behavior as an individual also contributes to the beliefs and behavior of those in your network, which means your attitudes and behaviors spread out and influence others. There have been studies done on voting behavior, for example, that show that one person voting also influences some people around them to vote as well.

So if you believe you can't make a difference, others around you might start thinking that as well—and then those people influence their friends to not do anything—and suddenly everyone is sitting on the sidelines.

On the flip side, you as an individual can create a huge amount of change by believing you can make a difference, and then acting as if you can. It may take time, but others around you will pay attention. And suddenly, there are many of us acting together.

So believe that you can change things—because it's true.