The True Story Behind the Stanford Prison Experiment

Back in 1971, Stanford University psychology professor Dr. Philip Zimbardo conducted a now-legendary experiment. In it, 24 male students were selected, and assigned the role of either prisoner or guard.

The guards were given uniforms and nightsticks. The prisoners were stripped of their identities and held in tiny cells.

The purpose of the experiment was to study the psychological effects of becoming a prisoner or guard.

A new film, called "The Stanford Prison Experiment," looks at the study, and how the students played their roles in a manner beyond any expectations. 

Billy Crudup plays Dr. Philip Zimbardo in the film. He and the real Dr. Zimbardo talk with The Takeaway.