Abstract
Festinger proposes that people need to evaluate their opinions and abilities, and that other people become the meter when physical reality does not supply a test.
Festinger, L. (1954). Human Relations, 7(2), 117–140. DOI
Key findings
- Person as meter — Opinions and abilities are checked against others when an objective standard is missing.
- Similarity informs — A comparison teaches more when the other person is close enough to be a real alternative.
Limits
Theoretical paper with hypotheses (Human Relations, 1954, 7(2), 117–140). Crossref confirms the record. It is not a randomised trial of self-disclosure, feeds, or coaching retention.
Application
When you are using someone who never misses as the standard, name that the meter is a person, not a test (Social comparison).