4' - Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds

These sources explore historical instances of mass delusion and hysteria - the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay, focusing on events such as the Mississippi Bubble, Tulip Mania, and the South Sea Bubble. The texts also examine the witch hunts, the O.P. riots at Drury Lane Theatre, and the Thuggee cult in India. Furthermore, the sources discuss various forms of superstition and belief in magic, including the weapon salve, animal magnetism, and astrology, illustrating how widespread irrationality affected different periods and societies. The writing style is descriptive and analytical, recounting historical events and analyzing the underlying psychological and societal factors that contributed to these episodes of collective madness. Finally, the texts highlight the role of charismatic leaders and the power of suggestion in shaping collective beliefs and behaviors during these frenzied periods.