Publisher's Synopsis
Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds V1 is a classic book written by Charles Mackay. The book is a comprehensive study of the psychology of crowds and the irrational behavior that often results from groupthink. The book is divided into three parts, each of which explores a different aspect of popular delusions and the madness of crowds.The first part of the book focuses on the financial manias that have swept through history, such as the South Sea Bubble and the Mississippi Scheme. Mackay examines the factors that contributed to these manias, including greed, gullibility, and the desire for quick profits.The second part of the book explores the impact of religious and political delusions on society. Mackay examines the role that charismatic leaders have played in creating mass movements, and the ways in which these movements have often led to violence and destruction.The final part of the book looks at the impact of superstitions and fads on popular culture. Mackay examines a wide range of phenomena, from the witch hunts of the Middle Ages to the fashion trends of the 19th century.Throughout the book, Mackay uses vivid examples and anecdotes to illustrate the power of popular delusions and the madness of crowds. He also provides insightful analysis of the psychological and social factors that contribute to these phenomena.Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds V1 is a timeless classic that continues to be relevant today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the psychology of crowds and the irrational behavior that often results from groupthink.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.
