Source-led reading note · Historical crowd psychology · Companion reading
The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind
An influential early exploration of collective belief, leadership and persuasion. Read critically alongside modern research, recognising its prejudices and disputed claims.
Gustave Le Bon
Subject and context
First published in French as Psychologie des foules in 1895, with an English translation in 1896. Le Bon examines collective belief, leadership and persuasion through ideas about repetition, prestige, suggestion and emotional imagery. This historical account offers context for studying ideas about mass influence. While reading, ask which claims are supported by evidence and how a speaker’s status or repeated assertions can make an argument feel convincing.
Formats & listening
Edition details and access conditions can differ by provider and territory. Printed or digital text is useful for checking citations, names and visual evidence even when listening.
Sources & edition details
Continue on this shelf
Psychology of Intelligence Analysis
Better information alone does not eliminate cognitive bias. Heuer examines how analysts’ mental models shape their judgments.
Reading note Charles DuhiggThe Power of Habit
Cue, routine and reward provide a general framework for thinking about habits. The book is not evidence of intelligence-agency doctrine.
Reading note Tatyana S. Kabachenko · Татьяна С. КабаченкоМетоды психологического воздействия
A specialist Russian-language reference on psychological influence. Its citation is verified; a full-text review and English edition are not.
Reading note