MEMOIRS OF EXTRAORDINARY POPULAR DELUSIONS - And the madness of crowds, vol 1 & 2 by charles mackay

A classic exploration of mass psychology and collective irrationality, Charles Mackay's seminal work examines the extraordinary delusions that have gripped entire populations throughout history. This complete two-volume set traces financial bubbles, social manias, and widespread superstitions—from the Dutch Tulip Mania to the Witch Hunts—revealing timeless patterns of human behaviour and crowd mentality. Essential reading for anyone seeking to understand how otherwise rational people can be swept up in collective madness. A fascinating and darkly humorous account of humanity's most peculiar episodes.