Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds

by Charles Mackay
Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds cover
Good Books rating 3.67
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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Paperback • £14.99 Hardback • £29.99
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  • ID: 11086
  • Added: 2026-02-21
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780857191076
  • Publisher: Harriman House Limited
  • Published: 2011-02-02
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

First published in 1841, this classic work delves into the extraordinary popular delusions that have captivated societies throughout history. Charles Mackay's account of the Mississipi Scheme, the South Sea Bubble, and Tulipomania illustrates how greed and fear drive financial markets, often leading to disastrous outcomes. The book is not just a thrilling narrative but also a profound study of social history, offering a vivid portrayal of human behavior in the face of popular crazes. For modern investors, the lessons from these historic episodes are particularly relevant. The book serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the dangers of getting swept up in market bubbles. Mackay's masterful chronicling of these events makes the book both an absorbing historical document and a riveting thriller, as vibrant and engaging today as it was when first written.

Reviews
Amazon · 2026-02-21
amazing 4.00

Mackay's simple narration of events is both engaging and insightful. The book is amazing in its ability to chronicle the extraordinary delusions of crowds.

The reviewer managed to work through the first volume and found it amazing. Mackay's simple narration of events is both engaging and insightful. The book is amazing in its ability to chronicle the extraordinary delusions of crowds. It's a captivating read that offers a deep dive into the psychology of mass behavior.

Quick quotes

    So far I managed to work through the first volume and believe me, it's amazing.

    Mackay is an accomplished chronicler and his simple narration of events creates a compelling narrative.

    It's a captivating read that offers a deep dive into the psychology of mass behavior.

Edge Induced Cohesion Blog · 2018-11-14
depressing 2.50

The book is a somewhat depressing read, as it leads to a somber reflection on human behavior rather than mere amusement. It serves as a stark reminder of the darker aspects of collective behavior.

The reviewer finds this book to be a somewhat depressing read. Rather than just laughing at the follies of others, it leads to a more somber reflection on human behavior. The book serves as a stark reminder of the darker aspects of collective behavior and the madness of crowds. It's not a lighthearted read, but it's certainly thought-provoking and eye-opening.

Quick quotes

    This book is, sadly a somewhat depressing read.

    It would be one thing if one was led to simply laugh at other people as a result of reading this.

    It serves as a stark reminder of the darker aspects of collective behavior.

Brothers Judd · Orrin C. Judd · 2000-07-02
timely 4.50

The book remains timely and relevant, with almost every story on the Internet Bubble referencing its insights. It's a fascinating read that highlights the enduring nature of human irrationality.

Orrin C. Judd highlights how this 150-year-old book is still incredibly relevant today. Almost every story about the Internet Bubble references its insights, showing that human nature hasn't changed much. Judd appreciates the book's ability to capture the timeless patterns of human behavior and the madness of crowds. It's a fascinating read that will make you think about how easily people can be swept up in collective delusions.

Quick quotes

    Amazingly enough, this 150 year old book is still just as timely as the day it was written, almost every story on the Internet Bubble references its insights.

    It's a fascinating read that highlights the enduring nature of human irrationality.

    The book remains timely and relevant, with almost every story on the Internet Bubble referencing its insights.

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