Publisher's Synopsis
Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds V1 is a classic work of non-fiction by Charles Mackay. Originally published in 1841, this book explores the human tendency towards irrational behavior, particularly in the form of mass hysteria and collective delusions. Mackay examines a wide range of historical events and phenomena, from the Tulip Mania in 17th-century Holland to the witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries, to the South Sea Bubble of the early 18th century. Through his analysis of these events, Mackay seeks to understand the psychological and social factors that contribute to the spread of irrational beliefs and behaviors. The book is divided into three parts, each of which focuses on a different type of popular delusion: national delusions, such as the Crusades and the French Revolution; religious delusions, such as the witch hunts and the Millerite movement; and financial delusions, such as the Mississippi Scheme and the South Sea Bubble. Mackay's writing is engaging and accessible, making this book a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of human behavior and the psychology of crowds.1852. The object of the author in the following pages has been to collect the most remarkable instances of those moral epidemics which have been excited, and to show how easily the masses have been led astray. Contents: the Mississippi scheme, the south-sea bubble, the tulipomania, the alchemists, modern prophecies, fortunetelling, the magnetizers, influence of politics and religion on the hair and beard, the crusaders, the witch mania, the slow poisoners, haunted houses, popular follies of great cities, popular admiration of great thieves, duels and ordeals, relics. Illustrated with engravings.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
