​The Monkeys, Bananas and Ladder Experiment: Obeying Absurd Rules | 2025 (2025)

​The Monkeys, Bananas and Ladder Experiment: Obeying Absurd Rules | 2025 (1)

It is a story that many of us have heard in conversations that talk about the acceptance of norms by the masses.

A seemingly simple experiment, with a small group of monkeys that are stuck in a cage and a few bananas that they could try to reach.

The “Monkeys, Bananas, and Ladder” experiment is a fascinating study in behavioral psychology that highlights how arbitrary rules and norms can take root in social settings, even when they seem illogical. This experiment, often referred to as a classic example of social conditioning and conformity, demonstrates how individuals and groups can become entrenched in behaviors that lack clear rationale. In this article, we’ll explore the details of the experiment, its implications, and how it helps us understand human behavior in the context of obedience and social norms.

​The Monkeys, Bananas and Ladder Experiment: Obeying Absurd Rules | 2025 (2)

Table of Contents

The monkey, ladder and banana experiment

As in almost all research that studies animal behavior, the experiment begins with a cage. Inside it are placed 5 healthy monkeys and, in the center of the room, a ladder with bananas at the top.

As expected, It doesn’t take long for the monkeys to start climbing the ladder to reach the food However, his plan is interrupted each time by an unpleasant surprise: every time a monkey climbs the steps, the researchers spray the rest of the primates with cold water.

This means that each attempt to access the bananas becomes a major reprimand from the monkeys towards the individual who tries: shouting, hitting, biting… anything goes to ensure that no one else has a similar occurrence. These practices were quite effective: After a while, no monkey tried to pick up the bananas, despite the temptation to eat them But the interesting part of the example comes later.

The Experiment Setup

The experiment involves a simple yet intriguing setup that reveals much about human behavior and conformity. Here’s how the experiment typically unfolds:

1. Initial Setup

In a controlled environment, a group of monkeys is placed in a cage with a ladder in the center and bananas hung from the ceiling. The setup is designed to observe how the monkeys interact with this arrangement.

2. Observing Behavior

Initially, one monkey is allowed to climb the ladder to reach the bananas. However, as soon as the monkey attempts to get the bananas, it is subjected to a mild shock or unpleasant stimulus. The other monkeys are exposed to the same stimulus whenever any of them tries to climb the ladder.

3. Introducing New Monkeys

After a period, one by one, the original monkeys are replaced with new ones. The new monkeys, unaware of the initial setup, observe that whenever any monkey attempts to climb the ladder, the other monkeys react aggressively to stop them. The new monkeys quickly learn to avoid climbing the ladder, even though they have never experienced the original shock themselves.

4. Full Replacement

Eventually, all the original monkeys are replaced with new ones. By this stage, no monkey in the cage has ever experienced the shock themselves, yet they continue to adhere to the rule of not climbing the ladder. The behavior persists even though the original reason for the rule (the shock) is long gone.

Introducing some changes

At this point, the researchers take one monkey out of the cage and put another in its place. This “newbie” sees the bananas on the ladder and, since he has not been able to find out what happens to those who try to do something, he receives the blows and screams of the others: the fear of ice water continues being present. This monkey does not understand the reason for this punishment, since he has not witnessed how the cold water falls, but after a few attempts he simply concludes that trying to reach the bananas is not a good idea.

Once this is done, the researchers replace another of the monkeys with a new one. This newcomer does the same as the first when he sees the bananas and the ladder, and the response of the rest is the same: punishment. However, On this occasion the first novice monkey also participates in the reprimand

From that point on, the researchers replace all the monkeys until none of the 5 monkeys remaining in the cage have witnessed the fall of the ice water. When someone tries to climb the ladder, these animals continue to react with the same violence as the five monkeys from the beginning.

​The Monkeys, Bananas and Ladder Experiment: Obeying Absurd Rules | 2025 (3)

The fable of obedience to the rules

This story is about carrying out an experiment, but, although its setting has to do with what happens in some psychology and zoology laboratories, this research does not exist as such: it has not been carried out and, therefore, There is no conclusion of scientific value that can be drawn from it

However, that does not mean that the story has no value as a fable. And the story of the monkeys, the bananas and the ladder is an example of blind obedience to norms on the part of a group

The first five monkeys had objective reasons for not wanting anyone to climb the ladder: every time they did, they were punished. However, the other monkeys obeyed the rules without having any reason to do so And not only did they obey them, but they perpetuated them through their behavior. The no-climb-the-stairs rule, despite its absurdity, had become part of their lives, to the point where they invested time and effort in making it continue to exist. Can the same thing happen with the norms that we human beings choose to reproduce through our actions?

Analysis and Implications

The “Monkeys, Bananas, and Ladder” experiment provides valuable insights into social behavior, conformity, and the power of learned norms. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Social Conditioning

The experiment illustrates how social norms and behaviors can be conditioned through a process of social learning. The new monkeys adopt the rule of not climbing the ladder simply by observing and conforming to the behavior of others, even when they do not understand the rationale behind it.

Explanation

Social conditioning plays a significant role in shaping our behaviors and attitudes. We often conform to norms and rules without questioning their validity, simply because they are established by those around us.

Example

  • Workplace Norms : In a professional setting, employees might follow certain practices or rituals not because they understand their purpose, but because it is the norm established by their colleagues.

2. Conformity and Obedience

The experiment demonstrates the power of conformity and obedience to group norms. Even in the absence of direct consequences, individuals may follow established rules due to the influence of group behavior.

Explanation

Conformity can lead individuals to adhere to rules and norms without questioning them, especially when they see others behaving in the same way. This can be observed in various social settings where people follow traditions or practices without fully understanding their origins.

Example

  • Social Media Trends : People often participate in social media trends or challenges simply because they see others doing so, without necessarily understanding the purpose behind them.

3. Absurdity of Rules

The experiment highlights how absurd or illogical rules can become entrenched in social practices. The monkeys continue to follow the rule of not climbing the ladder, even though they no longer experience the original deterrent.

Explanation

Rules and norms can persist beyond their logical or practical relevance, simply because they have been established and maintained over time. This demonstrates the tendency of individuals and groups to adhere to traditions and practices that may no longer make sense.

Example

  • Cultural Traditions : Certain cultural practices or traditions continue to be observed even when their original significance or purpose has faded, simply because they have become ingrained in societal norms.

Practical Applications

Understanding the implications of the “Monkeys, Bananas, and Ladder” experiment can help in various areas, including organizational behavior, social influence, and personal development.

1. Challenging Ineffective Practices

Recognizing the impact of social conditioning can help individuals and organizations challenge and change ineffective or outdated practices.

  • Organizational Change : Organizations can evaluate and reform practices that no longer serve a purpose, encouraging innovation and adaptation.

2. Enhancing Awareness

Being aware of how social norms influence behavior can lead to more conscious decision-making and a willingness to question established practices.

  • Personal Growth : Individuals can reflect on their behaviors and attitudes to ensure they align with their values and goals, rather than merely conforming to social expectations.

3. Promoting Critical Thinking

Encouraging critical thinking and questioning of established norms can lead to more informed and rational decision-making.

  • Education and Training : Educational programs and training sessions can focus on developing critical thinking skills to help individuals assess and challenge norms and practices.

The “Monkeys, Bananas, and Ladder” experiment offers a compelling demonstration of how social conditioning, conformity, and adherence to arbitrary rules can shape behavior. By understanding the mechanisms behind these phenomena, we can better appreciate the complexities of social influence and work towards more rational and effective practices in various aspects of life. Whether in personal development, organizational behavior, or social dynamics, recognizing and questioning the reasons behind our actions can lead to more meaningful and purposeful engagement.

FAQs

What does the “Monkeys, Bananas, and Ladder” experiment demonstrate?

The experiment demonstrates how social norms and arbitrary rules can become entrenched in behavior, even when the original reasons for the rules are no longer present.

How does social conditioning influence behavior?

Social conditioning influences behavior by establishing norms and expectations through observation and conformity, often leading individuals to follow rules without questioning their validity.

Why do people follow absurd or illogical rules?

People follow absurd or illogical rules due to social conditioning and conformity, where established norms persist even when their original rationale is no longer relevant.

How can organizations benefit from understanding this experiment?

Organizations can benefit by evaluating and challenging outdated practices, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging innovation to adapt to changing needs.

How can individuals apply insights from this experiment in their personal lives?

Individuals can use insights from the experiment to reflect on their behaviors, challenge ineffective norms, and make more informed decisions that align with their values and goals.

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​The Monkeys, Bananas and Ladder Experiment: Obeying Absurd Rules | 2025 (2025)
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