#861

Mentioned in 27 episodes

The true believer

Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements

Book • 1951

Published in 1951, 'The True Believer' is a landmark work in social psychology that provides a visionary and provocative look into the mind of the fanatic and the dynamics of mass movements.

Hoffer argues that ideologies are interchangeable for true believers, who are driven by personal frustrations and a desire for certainty and belonging.

The book is highly relevant today, offering insights into political fanaticism, the rise of mass movements, and the dangers of unthinking adherence to any cause.

It has been praised for its concise and insightful analysis, making it a significant contribution to social thought.

Mentioned by

Marc Andreessen

Steven Pressfield

Karim Sadjadpour

Russell Brunson

Billy Oppenheimer

Jim O’Shaughnessy

John Stonestreet

Stephen Fairbanks

Mentioned in 27 episodes

Mentioned by

Marc Andreessen

in relation to the roles of elites and masses in social movements.

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Mentioned by

Ben Shapiro

, quoting Eric Hoffer to describe the typical traits of those who tear down societies.

We Are Going to Have to Live Here With Each Other

Mentioned by

Steven Pressfield

in the context of discussing the psychology of mass movements and extremism.

Steven Pressfield: Battle Resistance, Master Your Craft, & Pursue Your Calling

Mentioned by

Billy Oppenheimer

as a book recommended by General Mattis.

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Mentioned by

Eric Yakes

as a book by social philosopher Eric Hoffer about mass movements.

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Mentioned by

Jim O’Shaughnessy

as a brilliant book on mass movements.

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Mentioned by

Jim O’Shaughnessy

as the author of a book that explains behavior patterns that have persisted throughout humanity's history.

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Mentioned by

Marc Andreessen

when discussing mass movements and the role of intellectuals.

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Mentioned by

Rob Henderson

, referencing Eric Hoffer's insights on how revolutions are fueled by the frustration of people whose conditions aren't improving fast enough.

Rob Henderson - America’s New Reality: Charlie Kirk, The Left’s Reactions & The Great Divide

Recommended by

John Stonestreet

to understand what makes revolutions and why people join movements.

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Mentioned by

Karim Sadjadpour

to describe Ayatollah Khamenei as a dedicated revolutionary.

What Comes Next for Iran?

Mentioned by Jim O'Shaughnessy in the context of conformity and the psychology of belief systems.

Jim O'Shaughnessy: Don't Squander This Age of Innovation

Recommended by

Dan Kennedy

as a fundamental book for those in the information business.

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Mentioned by

Rudyard Lynch

when discussing revolutionary systems.

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Mentioned by

Russ Roberts

as the author of "The True Believer", a book he considers insightful.

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Mentioned by

Rudyard Lynch

when discussing what totalitarianism offers.

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Mentioned by

Russell Brunson

as one of the books he was studying to understand how to create movements.

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Mentioned by

Marc Andreessen

when discussing the dynamics of movements and vanguards.

Marc Andreessen: The Time to Fight for AI is NOW [Classic Episode]

Mentioned by

Russell Brunson

as being about how mass movements are created.

What ‘The True Believer’ Taught Me About Building a Mass Movement and Creating Raving Fans | #Marketing - Ep. 49

Mentioned by

Stephen Fairbanks

when discussing the book "The True Believer."

Montessori High School Teacher, Stephen Fairbanks

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