The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements

Eric Hoffer posits that true believers crave united action and self-sacrifice. Could these cravings be put to good uses instead of bad under the right circumstances? Why or why not?

How does intense frustration make people susceptible to the appeals of mass movements? Do you agree with Hoffer’s depiction of frustration and which types make one more likely to be a true believer? What other potential factors do you believe might also play a role?

Hoffer argues that all mass movements are basically the same regardless of doctrine. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this argument? Do you find it convincing? Why or why not?