About the book
Informed by Erik Erikson’s concept of the formation of ego identity, this book, which first appreared in 1961, is an analysis of the experiences of fifteen Chinese citizens and twenty-five Westerners who underwent “brainwashing” by the Communist Chinese government. Robert Lifton constructs these case histories through personal interviews and outlines a thematic pattern of death and rebirth, accompanied by feelings of guilt, that characterizes the process of “thought reform.” In a new preface, Lifton addresses the implications of his model for the study of American religious cults.
Editions of Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780807842539
- EBook
- ISBN 9798890881342
- EBook
- ISBN 9780807882887
Read an Excerpt
Informed by Erik Erikson’s concept of the formation of ego identity, this book, which first appreared in 1961, is an analysis of the experiences of fifteen Chinese citizens and twenty-five Westerners who underwent “brainwashing” by the Communist Chinese government. Robert Lifton constructs these case histories through personal interviews and outlines a thematic pattern of death and rebirth, accompanied by feelings of guilt, that characterizes the process of “thought reform.” In a new preface, Lifton addresses the implications of his model for the study of American religious cults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism about?
Informed by Erik Erikson’s concept of the formation of ego identity, this book, which first appreared in 1961, is an analysis of the experiences of fifteen Chinese citizens and twenty-five Westerners who underwent “brainwashing” by the Communist Chinese government. Robert Lifton constructs these case histories through personal interviews and outlines a thematic pattern of death and rebirth, accompanied by feelings of guilt, that characterizes the process of “thought reform.” In a new preface, Lifton addresses the implications of his model for the study of American religious cults.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism?
History and Archaeology > History > Asian history
Where can I read a sample of Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780807842539
How long is Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism and how many pages does it have?
Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism has 524 page(s)
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism?
Robert Jay Lifton
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism is available as paperback(ISBN 9780807842539) and ebook(ISBN 9798890881342) and ebook(ISBN 9780807882887)
Where can I buy Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism from below
Where can I buy Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism?