The Psychology of Nations and Masses

One part is devoted to how, according to the author, the «soul of the nation» is formed: what historical, cultural, and other factors influence beliefs, social institutions, art, and stable behavior patterns. The other focuses on the psychology of the masses. It examines what happens to a person in a crowd: the sense of personal responsibility weakens, susceptibility to suggestion increases, and impulsiveness and emotional contagion come to the forefront. A separate place is given to the discussion of the role of leaders and ways to influence large groups of people.