This movie does a pretty good job of demonstrating how people can benudgedin a certain direction by changing the way choices are presented to them.Juror #8 knows that the he cannot force his opinion on the other jurors. They need to be nudged along, so that the choice to vote not guilty seems the more attractive one. Emotions are high in the room, and people are resistant to change. If theres any doubt, hes reminded of this early on in the movie when he stands alone against the 11 in voting not-guilty, and another juror barks Youre not gonna change anyones mind.So Juror #8 is cautious from the get-go. Whenever hes asked if he thinks the kid is guilty, he constantly answersI dont know. Its possible. This may actually be what hes thinking at the time, but its more likely he knows that he cant box people into a corner by telling them what to do. He needs to continue to nudge them, giving them information that gradually weakens their arguments, many of which arent based on rational reasons as expected, but a variety of emotional influences (including their own prejudices).Whenever were trying to change peoples habits, we know were dealing with complex forces and emotions. So finding a way to nudge rather than push is always going to be more effective in the long-term. Dont leave when one is talking Wait for everyone to start Listen when someone is talking Respect old man Have the guts to do what you think is right Human life is valuable to everyone Try to keep private prejudice out (of a thing like this) Perhaps the most obvious is havingthe courage of our convictions, especially in the face of pressure from others. The lead character played by Henry Fonda is under significant pressure form his fellow jurors, but he is determined to explore all of the evidence before he reaches a conclusion. He chooses principles over expediency. Important decisions should be given time. In the movie, a boys life is in the balance if found guilty, he will be executed. So Fondas character (called Davis) wants to talk things through, not to rush to a snap, potentially prejudiced decision. Davis sees the importance ofinfluencing others. He builds alliances often by the force of his arguments, sometimes by listening to the others. For me, one of the key leadership aspects that is displayed is the way that Davis repeatedly acknowledges his ownuncertainty. He cant be sure if the boy is guilty or not, he frequently concedes that he could be; but the evidence is patchy, they are dealing with incomplete information sets, with evidence that hasnt been adequately tested by the defending lawyer. Davis demonstrates his principled approach, but not a dogmatic one. Hecreates and manages tension. Davis creates uncertainty in the minds of his fellow jurors and allows them to follow their own thoughts. He knows that the tension is difficult some want to make a quick decision and leave, others are torn. He also knows that its essential that he maintains hiscomposure, clarity and focus. Even in the midst of all of the emotions that fill the room, and as the actual temperature rises, Davis (largely) stays calm and measured. Finally,names and titles arent the source of leadership. In the movie, the only time that any characters names are revealed is right at the end of the movie. The background and jobs held by each of the twelve men is only revealed slowly as the plot progresses. The jury foreman exercises little leadership others assume different leadership roles as the drama unfolds. When you watch the movie, notice that Juror No. 8 has no official authority beyond that of the other jurors. He isn't even the foreman. Yet he persuades his peers to reconsider. That is a good reminder that leadership doesn't require a title