Routledge - The Politics of Mass Society (Social Science Classics)

Explore the fundamental social conditions required for democracy in The Politics of Mass Society. This volume from the Social Science Classics Series examines why large scale societies are often vulnerable to totalitarian systems. Instead of focusing on the psychological aspects used in many European doctrines, Kornhauser presents a compelling argument that social order is the primary factor in how mass movements develop. This text looks at how mass movements mobilize individuals who feel alienated from their social systems. When people lose faith in the legitimacy of the established order, they become more willing to engage in efforts to destroy existing structures. This book provides a deep look into the mechanics of social stability and the risks faced by modern societies. It is an essential read for students and scholars interested in anthropology, sociology, and the mechanics of political movements.