In Strategic CSR, we use the phenomenon of flash mobs (http://www.flashmob.com/) as an example of why the revolution in global communications makes CSR a more immediate concern for firms today than ever before because it enables like-minded people to communicate and mobilize (Chapter 3: Environmental Forces Propelling Greater CSR, p56). Wikipedia defines a flash mob as:
“a large group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and pointless act for a brief time, then quickly disperse. The term flash mob is generally applied only to gatherings organized via telecommunications, social media, or viral emails.”
I am not normally a fan of Oprah (J), but, this video is one of the best examples of a flash mob I have seen. The key is to keep your eyes on the crowd, rather than the band, and watch as the mob spreads. It begins with the woman in blue in the middle at the front and slowly moves out to encompass the whole crowd. Oprah’s face is fun to watch as she gradually realizes what is happening:
Here's how they did it:
Have a great weekend.
DavidBill Werther & David Chandler
Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility
© Sage Publications, 2006
