Accord Quote by Eric Hoffer
“Starting out from the fact that the frustrated predominate among the early adherents of all mass movements and that they usually join of their own accord, it is assumed: 1) that frustration of itself, without any proselytizing prompting from the outside, can generate most of the peculiar characteristics of the true believer; 2) that an effective technique of conversion consists basically in the inculcation and fixation of proclivities and responses indigenous to the frustrated mind.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The True Believer by Eric Hoffer, 1951
Frustration can drive people to join movements, and conversion tactics often exploit this by shaping attitudes and responses.
In simple terms: Frustration fuels belief; conversion shapes mindset.
Key Takeaway
Address underlying frustrations before targeting groups.
Themes
frustration
conversion
mass movements
psychology
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
sociological
psychological
When to use this quote
- political rallies
- religious gatherings
- activist meetings
Key Concepts
social identity
group dynamics
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- What non‑frustration factors attract believers?
- How can movements foster healthy engagement?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on frustration may ignore other motivations.
