Charles Mackay Books
Charles Mackay (1814–1889) was a Scottish poet, journalist, and social commentator. He wrote extensively on historical and psychological subjects, gaining lasting recognition for his analysis of mass delusions and popular errors.
Known for: Extraordinary Popular Delusions
Books by Charles Mackay
Extraordinary Popular Delusions
Originally published in 1841, this classic work by Scottish journalist and author Charles Mackay explores the psychology of mass hysteria and collective folly throughout history. Mackay examines famous episodes of economic and social mania, including the South Sea Bubble, the Mississippi Scheme, and the Tulipomania, illustrating how crowds can be swept up by irrational enthusiasm and delusion. The book remains a foundational text in understanding crowd behavior and speculative bubbles.
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The Mississippi Scheme
The Mississippi Scheme remains one of history’s grand demonstrations of speculative mania. I recount how John Law, a Scottish adventurer with a fertile imagination and an indulgent French court, convinced the regent of France that paper money and colonial wealth could resurrect the kingdom’s impover...
From Extraordinary Popular Delusions
The South Sea Bubble
If the Mississippi Scheme was France’s folly, the South Sea Bubble was England’s masterpiece of self-deception. The South Sea Company promised riches from trade with the Spanish colonies of the Americas—prosperity beyond measure. Politicians endorsed it, noblemen invested, and even poets sang its pr...
From Extraordinary Popular Delusions
About Charles Mackay
Charles Mackay (1814–1889) was a Scottish poet, journalist, and social commentator. He wrote extensively on historical and psychological subjects, gaining lasting recognition for his analysis of mass delusions and popular errors. His works reflect a deep interest in human behavior, communication, an...
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Charles Mackay (1814–1889) was a Scottish poet, journalist, and social commentator. He wrote extensively on historical and psychological subjects, gaining lasting recognition for his analysis of mass delusions and popular errors. His works reflect a deep interest in human behavior, communication, an...
Charles Mackay (1814–1889) was a Scottish poet, journalist, and social commentator. He wrote extensively on historical and psychological subjects, gaining lasting recognition for his analysis of mass delusions and popular errors. His works reflect a deep interest in human behavior, communication, and the influence of collective emotion on society.
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Charles Mackay (1814–1889) was a Scottish poet, journalist, and social commentator. He wrote extensively on historical and psychological subjects, gaining lasting recognition for his analysis of mass delusions and popular errors.
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