Roger Bannister Effect
Pronunciation: /ˈrɒdʒ.ər ˈbæn.ɪ.stər ɪˈfɛkt/ (ROJ-er BAN-iss-ter ih-FEKT)
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition:
A phenomenon in which the achievement of a previously believed “impossible” goal by an individual leads to a surge of similar successes by others, as collective beliefs and mental barriers are shattered. The term comes from Roger Bannister, who in 1954 became the first person to run a mile in under four minutes—an accomplishment that many thought unattainable until he proved otherwise. After his breakthrough, numerous athletes soon matched or surpassed his record, illustrating how breaking a perceived limit can inspire widespread achievement.
Example:
Highschool students are now running a mile in under four minutes, showing the Roger Bannister Effect in action.