Read the article Kelman & Hamilton: “The My Lai Massacre: A Military Crime of Obedience” p. 76
a. Explain the phrase, “.. Crime of Obedience” as it relates to this article.
b. While the men of Charlie Company are described by the author as “average,” the Commander and one of the platoon leaders are described as “more unusual.” Explain what the author means by “unusual.”
c. Differentiate between “spontaneous” acts committed at My Lai versus “organized” acts. Give example of each.
d. Compare and contrast the behavior of Pfc. Meadio, Pfc. Dursi, and CWO Thompson in the face of what occurred. What would you have done, or what do you hope you would have done?
e. What was Calley’s defense?
f. Explain why the author says that subordinates take part in “a balancing act” when it comes to the issue of obeying orders.
g. Explain why the author feels that psychology is not terribly helpful in understanding what happened at My Lai.
h. Name and explain with examples the three social processes involved in creating the conditions leading to the massacre at My Lai.
