~ 1921 ~
Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego is a 1921 book by psychologist Sigmund Freud in which he describes the psychological mechanisms within mass movements. He refers heavily to the writings of sociologist and psychologist Gustave Le Bon, summarizing his work at the beginning of the book. Freud distinguishes between two types of masses: short-lived ones with a rapidly transient interest, and more permanent and enduring masses such as religion or the military. He notes that both kinds of masses are held together by libidinal bonds and have certain characteristics like impulsive, changeable, and irritable behaviors. Freud concludes that primary mass is a number of individuals who have put one and the same object in place of their ego ideal and consequently identify with each other.