" Thou comest to me with a sword and a spear and a shield, but I come to thee in the name of the L-rd of Hosts, the G-d of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast humiliated..." (I Samuel, 17:45-47)

Monday, September 14, 2009

Eric Hoffer: Philosopher, Righteous Gentile

I just stumbled upon a great article by the late Eric Hoffer at www.freeman.org. For those who don't know, Eric Hoffer was the author of the brilliant sociological work, "The True Believer" which delves into the psychology of mass movements and the followers of mass movements. Hoffer wasn't your typical academic. A longshoreman by trade, Hoffer was living proof that intellect isn't acquired through the accumulation of advanced degrees. Some of the brightest minds roll up their sleeves and work with their hands. More often than not, the universities are intellectual graveyards.

Throughout his lengthy career, Eric Hoffer distinguished himself as a genuine friend of Israel, a rare find indeed. Click the following link to read Hoffer's article from 1968, "Israel's Peculiar Position". His insight and foresight (particularly his last line) was remarkable. Few Jews understand the malignant face of anti-semitism as well as he did.

"The True Believer" is a must read, if you want to understand the psychology of mass movements (good and bad alike). You might even get some insight into the accursed "peace camp" that has completely taken over the country.

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