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REVISE! REVISE! REVISE! DEFORMED RABBITS!
OK, in the essay Gladwell was answering the question “Does the group ultimately bring about more success than one of its units?” (Success being defined as innovation) Gladwell divided his essay into three different sections. The first section is written more like a newspaper or magazine article, in that he uses direct quotes, and is about the group dynamic of the original SNL cast.
The second and third sections are written more in an academic style, and use block quotes instead of direct quotes. The second section begins to parse group thinking and shows a connection to the German Philosophy bit. In this section he gives examples of famous “Thinkers” who were supported by strong groups. He goes on to state that the group atmosphere is key in many great ideas because in groups, ideas can be “bounced off” others. The competetiveness and desire to better other member’s ideas also contributes to greater individual and group productivity.
The third section brings us back to the SNL example in describing the effect of inside jokes on outside parties. The inside joke contributes to the evolution of ideas into revolutions.
