The Nature and Impact of Crowds

The concept of a crowd encompasses both physical and psychological elements, illustrating how gatherings can function beyond mere numbers. Physical crowds gather in specific spaces, while psychological crowds consist of individuals who share common interests or identities, like fandoms on social media. The different dynamics of these crowds frame how they interact with each other and the surrounding environment. During the pandemic, the absence of crowds led to a profound realization about the importance of community, highlighting how both meaningful connections and collective experiences, even with strangers, enhance social fulfillment.