Critical Mass

The term ‘critical mass’ originates from nuclear physics, where it refers to the smallest amount of fissile material required to sustain a nuclear chain reaction. Once this threshold is reached, the reaction becomes self-sustaining and increasingly powerful.

Over time, this concept has been widely adopted as a metaphor in popular culture, social sciences, and organisational theory. It is commonly used to describe situations in which a significant shift occurs once a certain number of people adopt a behaviour, support an idea, or enter a particular setting.

As Oliver (2013, p.1) explains:

“The term has diffused into popular culture and social science and is widely used to refer to any context in which things change after a certain number of people get together or enter a setting.”

In an organisational or school context, achieving critical mass can be essential for driving cultural change. Whether implementing new teaching practices, shifting school values, or embedding behavioural norms, reaching this tipping point ensures that change gains momentum and becomes self-sustaining.

Thus, understanding and strategically cultivating critical mass is crucial for leaders aiming to create lasting and meaningful transformation in their institutions.