First Things, Last Things

Much of Hoffer's early work is distanced, cool, and detached in style. This, his last book, is less reserved. He writes for example;"...violence is not the outer manifestation of some dark disorder in the cellars of the mind but the perverse highjinks of unruly punks...""Our sociologist quacks are warning us that violence is a symptom or a deep-seated social disease; that it is the most dangerous error to treat symptoms and not get to the root causes of the disease itself.""Those who, when probing man's behavior, brush aside what's on the surface, and look for 'root causes,' are like those who, when peeling and onion, discard scale after scale, and look for an inner kernel."Written in 1971, so many of his thoughts are true for today (2021). Kamala Harris's recent response to the immigration crisis; "We must look for the root causes."Highly recommended for Hoffer fans.

Book was in good condition and promptly. Considering it was written over 50 years ago, it was spot on and prophetic

Thie essays in this book range from the far pre-history and the creation of ideas to the late 1960s... Far-ranging, thoughtful, original, thought-provoking and overall completely dynamic! My students find this book both challenging & enlightening.Hoffer is easy reading in many ways, and writes clearly in brief essays, bringing together ideas in an accessible manner.

I found this book very interesting and marvel at Hoffer's wide ranging knowledge.With his passing we really lost a unique person.Happy reading,John Barnes,Bangkok, Thailand

Fun read - still relevant.

Vintage Hoffer, could not be more pleased.

It is a joy to re read Eric Hofer. It has been some 30 years ago that I first read his incredible notes on life.

Husband loved it! Great reading!!