“Marriage has for women many equivalents of joining a mass movement. It offers them a new purpose in life, a new future and a new identity (a new name). The boredom of spinsters and of women who can no longer find joy and fulfillment in marriage stems from an awareness of a barren, spoiled life. By embracing a holy cause and dedicating their energies and substance to its advancement, they find a new life full of purpose and meaning.”
This book delves into the reasons why people become fervent adherents of various ideologies, exploring the psychological and social factors that drive individuals to commit to causes and movements. It analyzes the dynamics of groupthink, the allure of charismatic leaders, and the psychological needs that are often satisfied through membership in such groups. more
Eric Hoffer was an American philosopher known for his profound insights into human nature. His works often explore society, politics, and human behavior, particularly focusing on the experiences of the underclass. Hoffer came from a German immigrant family and worked in various jobs in California during his youth, including dockworker, cook, and gardener. His first book, 'The Ordeal of Change', was published in 1950 and quickly became a bestseller, gaining him widespread recognition. His other works include 'The Ordeal of Change' and 'The True Believer' among others. more
“Take away hatred from some people, and you have men without faith.”
“Unpredictability, too, can become monotonous.”
“Despair lames most people, but it wakes others fully up.”
“Experience, as we know, has a way of boiling over, and making us correct our present formulas.”