Why confident and intelligent people often stay silent in meetings

Fear of social isolation often silences dissenting voices, a phenomenon termed the 'Spiral of Silence.' Individuals, especially in group settings, tend to conform to perceived majority opinions to avoid rejection.

This self-censorship, amplified by social media, leads to a false consensus, hindering genuine progress and honest communication in workplaces, classrooms, and friendships.

Breaking this cycle requires fostering environments where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued. ...