Preface

Summary

One particular phenomenon represents the touchstone of relationships between groups and individuals, and beyond that between majorities and minorities. This phenomenon is influence. In practice and from time immemorial all psychologies of people in society have been based on some vision of influence. It constitutes the common denominator in medical, religious and political activities. Virtually no peoples exist, however primitive they may be, who do not call upon some magical formula or technique for modifying the consciousness of individuals and incorporating them within the common consciousness. Through various means, which may take any form ranging from spirit possession, to spirit cures or to ceremonies organised around dance or music, individuals are brought closer together and more intimate contact is created. For us analogous functions are served by debates, mass meetings, gatherings and rallies of all kinds. In each case we may observe the presence of a group or individual that tries to convince others and achieve acceptance of a feeling or an action by a greater or lesser number of individuals. What is the goal? All the evidence suggests that the aim is to bring people closer together, to create a community of thought and behaviour. Without such convergence and such community nothing can be achieved, anymore by two people than by a great social movement.

The above mentioned examples manifestly involve influence.