A social psychologist argues that while the general public tends to view conformity as a negative trait, it is often a necessary aspect of a functioning society. The psychologist cites a variety of historical and modern examples to support this claim. For example, the psychologist points to the rise of standardized testing in the 20th century, which created a system in which students were expected to conform to a set of pre-determined norms. The psychologist also notes that conformity is often evident in the workplace, as employees are expected to adhere to certain rules and regulations to ensure a smooth flow of work. Ultimately, the psychologist concludes that while conformity is a highly visible aspect of life, it plays a crucial role in ensuring that society runs smoothly.