The Mass Psychology of Fascism

New York, New York, U.S.A.: Orgone Institute Press, 1946. First English Language Edition . Hardcover. VG-/Very Good. Even more frighteningly relevant today than when the author originally wrote it to explain the Nazi's rise to power in Germany leading up to WWII. The famed psychoanalyst, who originated "orgone theory," here explores how the economic & ideological structure of a society can converge, fueled by nationalism & racism, & sexual suppression, to create a climate where fascism can flourish, especially when fueled by a charismatic leader. And as Reich was a Freudian & early sexologist, he also offers a fascinating analysis of the sexual symbolism of the swastika. 344 pp. Orig. published in German in 1933 & in a second edition the very next year, this is the First English-laguage Edition from 1946, translated from the manuscript of the revised & enlarged third edition. Newspaper clipping dated 1982 laid in discussing the resurgence of book banning & burning in the US, including the works of this author. A significant work for any era & essential reading for our own. Hardcover 8vo has matte black cloth-covered boards stamped with bright gilt lettering to front & spine. Condition is VG- (minus)/Good+, downgraded solely due to very heavy underlining by former owner, which really only impacts the Preface, with scattered lighter underlining in first 5 pages; also, some writing to ffep, name stamp to bottom outside page edges. Else, very clean, pages moderately tanned, heavier to edges. Text block strong, hinges secure, but gutter between pages 8-9 is cracked. About 50 pages have mild chipping/tearing to lower edge & the top outer-upper corners of some pages in the 40s-50s show rough edges/tearing/scraping (see photos). The unclipped DJ (with orig. $4.50 price intact) is VG: bright & colorful with minor chips & light soil, some writing to front flap; nicely protected in new mylar cover Free! Our photos depict the Exact book you will receive, never "stock" images of books we don't actually have. Same day shipping on all orders received by 2 pm Weekdays (Pacific time); later orders, weekends & holidays ship very next business day.