Eric Hoffer’s “The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements” (1951) is a seminal work that examines the psychology of individuals who become deeply committed to mass movements, whether political, religious, or social. Hoffer’s analysis focuses on the motivations and characteristics of these “true believers” and the conditions that make mass movements thrive.

Key Psychological Traits of the True Believer

1. Discontent with the Present Self: True believers often feel a deep dissatisfaction with their personal lives. They see themselves as ineffectual, powerless, or insignificant and seek to escape this reality by merging their identity with a larger cause or movement [1]. Hoffer argues that this dissatisfaction drives people to seek meaning and purpose in something external, often leading them to embrace ideologies that promise radical change.

2. Desire for Certainty and Simplicity: True believers are drawn to movements that offer clear, black-and-white answers to complex problems. They crave certainty and are often intolerant of ambiguity or nuance.

3. Willingness to Sacrifice Individuality: Hoffer notes that true believers are willing to subordinate their individuality to the collective identity of the movement. This allows them to feel part of something greater than themselves, which can be empowering but also leads to fanaticism.

4. Frustration and Resentment:!Many true believers harbor feelings of frustration and resentment, often directed at society, elites, or other groups they perceive as responsible for their struggles. This resentment fuels their commitment to the movement and their willingness to fight for its goals.

5. Faith in a Glorious Future: True believers are often motivated by a vision of a utopian future promised by the movement. This vision gives them hope and a sense of purpose, even if it requires sacrificing the present [2].

6. Susceptibility to Leadership: Hoffer emphasizes that true believers are often drawn to charismatic leaders who embody the ideals of the movement and provide a sense of direction and unity.

Comparison to Modern “True Believers”

The psychological traits Hoffer identified remain relevant today and can be observed in the followers of contemporary political figures like Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, and Bernie Sanders. While the specific ideologies and movements differ, the underlying motivations and behaviors of their most ardent supporters often align with Hoffer’s analysis.

1. Donald Trump: Many of Trump’s most devoted supporters exhibit traits of true believers, such as a strong desire for certainty, resentment toward perceived elites, and faith in Trump’s promises to “Make America Great Again.” His charismatic leadership and ability to channel frustration into a cohesive movement resonate with Hoffer’s description of mass movement dynamics.
2. Kamala Harris and Barack Obama: Supporters of Harris and Obama often emphasize their hope for a more inclusive and equitable future. While their movements may not exhibit the same level of fanaticism as others, the faith in their leadership and vision for change reflects some of the psychological traits Hoffer described, particularly the desire for a better future and identification with a collective cause [2].
3. Bernie Sanders: Sanders’ supporters often align with Hoffer’s analysis of frustration and resentment, particularly toward economic inequality and corporate power. His movement’s focus on systemic change and a vision of a more just society appeals to those seeking meaning and purpose through collective action.

Key Differences in Modern Contexts

While the psychological makeup of true believers remains consistent, modern mass movements are shaped by new factors:

• Social Media: Platforms like Twitter and Facebook amplify the reach of mass movements, allowing true believers to connect and organize more easily. This can intensify the sense of belonging and reinforce ideological echo chambers.

• Polarization: Modern politics is highly polarized, which can deepen the divide between opposing groups of true believers and increase the intensity of their commitment.

• Polarization: Modern politics is highly polarized, which can deepen the divide between opposing groups of true believers and increase the intensity of their commitment.

• Diverse Ideologies: Unlike the mid-20th century, today’s mass movements span a broader range of ideologies, from progressive to conservative, reflecting the complexity of modern societies.

Conclusion

Eric Hoffer’s insights into the psychology of the true believer remain strikingly relevant in understanding the dynamics of modern mass movements. Whether supporting Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, or Bernie Sanders, true believers today share many of the same psychological traits Hoffer identified: dissatisfaction with the present, faith in a better future, and a willingness to subordinate individuality to a collective cause. However, the tools and contexts of modern movements—such as social media and political polarization—have added new dimensions to the phenomenon.

CORE’s (Congress of Racial Equality) Rules for Direct Action became a model for nonviolent resistance worldwide. Their emphasis on preparation, discipline, and moral clarity ensured that their actions were both effective and ethically grounded. These principles continue to influence modern social movements, from environmental activism to racial justice campaigns. By combining strategic planning with cultural tools, CORE and similar organizations demonstrated the power of nonviolence in achieving systemic change.

CORE’S Rules for Direct Action full article CLICK HERE

History and Influence of CORE article CLICK HERE

I’ve got health care.

DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) doesn’t affect me.

I’ve got a job.

I’m not an immigrant.

Addressing the question “if it doesn’t affect me directly, why should I care?”, it’s crucial to understand the broader impact of community organizations. Understanding and evaluating community organizations requires a multifaceted approach. By considering their effectiveness, transparency, coalition-building efforts, and legitimacy indicators, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to support and engage with. Remember that while an organization’s impact may not always be immediately apparent to you personally, their work often contributes to broader societal improvements that can benefit everyone in the long term.

For full article We Need Organizations CLICK HERE

Addressing the question “if it doesn’t affect me directly, why should I care?”, it’s crucial to understand the broader impact of community organizations. Understanding and evaluating community organizations requires a multifaceted approach. By considering their effectiveness, transparency, coalition-building efforts, and legitimacy indicators, you can make informed decisions about which organizations to support and engage with. Remember that while an organization’s impact may not always be immediately apparent to you personally, their work often contributes to broader societal improvements that can benefit everyone in the long term.

1. Collective Impact: Community organizations often address issues that affect society as a whole, even if not immediately apparent to individuals. Their work can lead to systemic changes that benefit everyone in the long run.
2. Social Cohesion: These organizations play a vital role in building stronger, more connected communities, which can improve quality of life for all residents.
3. Resource Mobilization: They often mobilize resources and volunteers to address local issues more efficiently than government agencies or individuals could alone.
4. Advocacy: Community organizations can amplify the voices of marginalized groups and advocate for policy changes that benefit the broader community.

The Importance of Transparency in Community Organizations

In an era where organizations may operate virtually or from home offices, developing transparency is crucial:

1. Embrace Digital Tools: Organizations should leverage digital technologies to enhance transparency and accountability. This includes using platforms that allow for real-time data sharing and communication, which can help in making informed decisions and fostering trust among stakeholders [10].
2. Implement Data Transparency Practices: Ensure clear and open handling of data, helping stakeholders understand how their information is collected, used, and shared [11].
3. Utilize Blockchain for Immutable Records: Consider using blockchain technology to create decentralized and immutable records, enhancing transparency and reducing the risk of fraud [12].
4. Balance Transparency with Privacy: While transparency is important, it must be balanced with privacy concerns. Organizations should ensure that sensitive information is protected and that transparency does not lead to unintended data exposure [13].

I Care What You Think

We know that you all cannot support nonviolent revolution in the same way and we are not asking you to. But before we ever start we need to know who will support nonviolent revolution and at what level. Are you an Actor, Ally or Accomplice? Click this link. After you have figured out what it is you are willing to do please fill out and submit the What Will You Do Survey.

We need to build a movement! Not another organization. We need to support active organizations that we already have.

Be aware of the gatekeepers (pimps, preachers and prostitutes), they will want to stop you, slow you down, and turn this movement around. Some earn their income from our plight. Their behavior might get you killed.

These reflections and critiques offer insight into the challenges and nuances of organizing for social and political change, especially in a community with unique demographic and cultural dynamics like Spokane’s. I’ll break down some of the key themes and ideas that emerge from my observations, followed by an analysis of the different organizational meeting styles I have observed.

Observations on Spokane’s Social Justice Landscape

1. The Challenge of Unity in Diversity

I would like to highlight a critical stumbling block: the diversity of backgrounds and experiences among African Americans in Spokane, combined with open housing policies that have dispersed the community geographically. This dispersal creates physical and cultural barriers to organizing. Efforts at building unity often falter because of a lack of shared experiences or common interests.

The “myth of unity” is especially powerful. True solidarity often requires honest critique and the ability to challenge one another constructively. However the fear of disrupting fragile social bonds can prevent this, leaving communities stagnant or divided. Recognizing this tension is a crucial first step toward addressing it.

2. Opposition’s Strategic Plans

The opposition’s strategy of fostering disunity by perpetuating myths of unity and relying on ineffective slogans such as “each one teach one” resonates. While the latter sounds appealing, it does not scale quickly enough to make the kind of sweeping change necessary in the face of systemic opposition.

Calling for methods to teach larger groups and work collaboratively rather than individually is vital. Scaling up requires intentional, structured approaches that balance grassroots engagement with broader, unified strategies.

3. The Power of Small, Scalable Actions

Starting with small groups (5-10 people) that reach consensus and funnel ideas up to larger groups (20-40 people) is practical and reflects effective organizing models. This approach mirrors successful strategies used in community organizing and union movements. The key is ensuring that these small groups do not become isolated or self-contained but instead feed into a larger, cohesive effort.

Use independent media to disseminate ideas and strategies. In the digital age, leveraging social media, podcasts, and other platforms can amplify these messages far beyond the immediate community.

Critique of Organizational Meeting Styles

1. Small Groups That Just Complain

These groups are common in grassroots organizing and often act as pressure valves for frustration. While they may provide a sense of camaraderie and shared grievance, they rarely lead to action or change. The key to transforming these groups is introducing structure, goal-setting, and accountability.

2. Small Groups That Take Effective Action But Fail to Scale

These groups are the backbone of many movements, as they are action-oriented and often achieve measurable results. However, they can become insular and overly reliant on the comfort of their small size. To scale up, these groups must develop strategies for outreach, recruitment, and leadership development. Succession planning is also critical to prevent burnout and stagnation.

3. Large, Established Groups with Gatekeeping Leadership

Larger organizations with entrenched leadership may have the appearance of strength, but their top-heavy structure often stifles grassroots participation and innovation. Additionally, their focus on appearances (e.g., press conferences, grand speeches) can overshadow actual community engagement. Breaking down these gatekeeping tendencies requires fostering a culture of transparency, shared decision-making, and accountability within these organizations.

4. A Model Town Hall Meeting

I want to note a successful Democratic meeting – a state legislative town hall I recently attended which stands out as a shining example of effective organization and engagement. Its success can be attributed to several factors:

• Preparation: From the panel’s shared experiences and unified goals to logistical details like sign-ins, cards for questions, and microphones for audience participation, every aspect of the event was thoughtfully planned.
• Inclusivity: The setup allowed for both written and verbal questions, ensuring that all voices were heard, including those less comfortable speaking publicly.
• Follow-Up: Collecting contact information and ensuring unanswered questions were addressed later demonstrated respect for participants’ concerns and a commitment to accountability.
• Engagement: The inclusion of a younger, passionate panel member brought fresh energy and perspectives, which is often key to inspiring broader participation.

This model could serve as a blueprint for other events, fostering trust, transparency, and community buy-in.

Key Takeaways and Recommendations

1. Build Bridges Across Diverse Experiences

To overcome the challenge of disunity, focus on identifying shared goals and emphasizing common interests rather than differences. This could involve hosting listening sessions or cultural exchanges to deepen understanding among community members.

2. Scale Effectively

• Start with small groups but ensure they are networked into a larger movement. Use representatives to connect these groups and share their findings.
• Embrace digital tools to communicate and scale your efforts. Social media campaigns, live-streamed events, and online forums can bring dispersed communities together.

3. Cultivate Leadership and Prevent Gatekeeping

Develop leadership training programs to empower new voices and prevent the monopolization of power by a few individuals. Encourage established organizations to adopt more democratic, participatory structures.

4. Learn from the Model Town Hall

The thoughtful, inclusive approach of the town hall meeting I attended is replicable. Key elements to incorporate into future events include:

• Advance planning and logistics
• Opportunities for direct and written participation
• Transparent follow-up processes
• A mix of seasoned and fresh voices to ensure both experience and innovation

5. Use Independent Media Strategically

Leverage independent media to broadcast successes, share strategies, and counteract misinformation. Platforms like blogs, YouTube channels, and podcasts can amplify voices that mainstream media often overlooks.

Conclusion

I hope these reflections capture the complexity of organizing for social justice in a fragmented community. The challenges outlined—disunity, ineffective strategies, and entrenched gatekeeping—are significant but not insurmountable. By building on effective models like the town hall meeting and prioritizing scalable, inclusive approaches, there is real potential to create lasting change.

If any of this information here at 4comculture.com is useful to you, pass it on to friends and community leaders in order that they might learn.

There are mobilizers and there are organizers. The demonstrations you have seen and participated in for George Floyd here and across the globe have been successful mobilization events. What is needed now is grassroot organization.

The map on the left are the communities in Spokane where this discussion needs to take place. Suggestions of what you can do in your community are at this link: Mobilizing to Organizing

Sunday June 7, 2020 started off at 10:30 am with meditation and yoga exercises at the Red Wagon. At 2:00 pm the NAACP had one of the largest outside rallies in Spokane’s history. The tone of this rally was set by Kurtis Robinson, Kiantha Duncan, and Le’Taxione. Kurtis Robinson welcomed a large standing crowd at the Lilac Bowl. Kiantha Duncan followed asking everyone to sit down on the grass and center themselves. She had three messages that she wanted to deliver to three groups of people. She thanked all who showed up to nonviolently express their outrage and disappointment with police brutality throughout the country. If there were those who came looking for trouble with signs with hateful speech, she wanted them to take those signs and sit on them. Then she called upon all law enforcement agents to obey the law and treat all demonstrators with respect and human dignity. My observation was that there were no visible signs of law enforcement. Le’Taxione told the audience that he was not speaking to make anybody feel good, he was there to express his strong objections to brutality and the status quo. But he made it quite clear he and the youth he brought would not allow anybody to hijack this peaceful demonstration. If so, they would be escorted out of town. These photographs bear witness to the unified desire that everyone should receive equal justice.

After your demonstrations at the Red Wagon or City Hall you could:

• Ask 5 of your new or trusted friends for their email addresses and mobile phone numbers so you can set up a meeting regularly via Zoom to discuss strategies and planned measurable actions. Assign someone to send information about the measurable actions you plan to info@4comculture.com so they can be shared at the website 4comculture.com. Hopefully when the city opens up and you can have meetings in public places such as coffee shops you will be able to have these discussions face-to-face.
• If you can find 4 people that will accompany you to an arterial in your neighborhood each could stand on a corner displaying their signs for an hour or more
• Walk up and down the block or cul-de-sac where you live with your sign and handout sharing why you march and what others can do to help. This is something you can do alone.
• Stand in front of the house you live in with your sign and have a discussion about why you march with anybody that will join you. Have two socially distant chairs nearby.

Being Black I am always visible! I am asking you to shed your invisibility.

History Lesson On Organizing

Kwame Ture: Converting the Unconscious to Conscious

If we are brothas we need to support each other in this war at both levels. We need to support each other in measurable ways, not just throw around cultural symbols. We need to start by asking little things of each other.

• If you are a friend you will wear a mask because it protects you from me and me from you.
• We need to believe in and support the idea of one justice indivisible. If you don’t know what I am talking about a starting point would be The 14 Principles listed at 4comculture.com.
• The Spokane School District Board of Education wants to name several new school buildings. It would be nice if two of those schools were named after people of color. You can nominate someone: Nomination Link. I have nominated Frances Scott and Ruben Trejo.
• It would be good to let us know your personal level of commitment: Ally, Actor or Accomplice. See page at 4comculture.com.
• You need to have an online presence. You need to let your other brothas know what it is you stand for. One simple way to do this is to participate in online posting and messaging at Facebook.
• Let’s become civic activists. Participate in local social justice organizations or engage in new methods of non-violent action that include physical, virtual and hybrid actions.
• We each need to develop a social justice budget. It would be nice if you would donate on a regular basis to the things that you believe in. Let me suggest that you make a donation to anybody or any group that you choose, but do it in the name of Spokane Brothas. The reason I suggest doing that is to build a power base that would be respected. I would suggest a budget that would express your volunteer time as well as your cash contributions. For example a budget of $100 a month could include:
  • Volunteering: 7 hours a month at the national minimum wage of $7.25 per hour would be about a $50 in-kind contribution. What if you showed up to volunteer in a Brothas T-shirt?
  • Send a check to the Black Lens. About $4.00 a month buys a subscription.
  • Contribute to an informational issue campaign. For example about $16 pays for a MailChimp service that will send your message to a mailing list of thousands that you have built. In times of quarantine and isolation you have to find ways other than community meetings to deliver information about your issues. You could buy a yard sign with your message or issue or candidate.
  • Give $20 to local and/or regional progressive organizations or blue political parties – to the same organization/s every month so they can feel your presence.
  • Give $10 to national progressive organizations or blue political parties – to the same organization/s every month so they can feel your presence.

If we only had 14 brothas contributing at this level this would be $1400 per month or $16,800 per year. Imagine what would happen if we had 100 brothas.

Your comments are welcome. If I haven’t heard from you by June 12, I will assume you are not interested.

Bob L. info@4comculture.com

This year we gathered as usual Sunday January 19 at Holy Temple Church of God in Christ for the Commemorative Celebration. Monday January 20 we gathered at the Spokane Convention Center for a video presentation about the MLK East Central Community Center, inspirational speeches, Max Daniels of House of Soul gave his rendition of A Change Is Gonna Come with a slide presentation that illustrated previous MLK rallies and CLICK: Those Who Showed Up during the year to speak to power, marched around several blocks downtown, and returned to the Exhibit Hall where Michael Moon Bear youth drummers entertained.

But there were only two action steps suggested.

One was that we spread the love and brotherhood of Dr. King’s teachings and the other was that we show up February 3 at City Hall to ask the City Council to rename the East Central Community Center as the Martin Luther King Community Center.

People leave these rallies without knowing what they can do. What will you do between now and when we gather again in January 2021 for the MLK rally and march? In the next few weeks there are the impeachment proceedings followed by the campaigns for the presidential and other elections in November. We need to get busy.

100 Discussion to Action Groups

If you believe in CLICK: These Principles we need you to go to your local coffee house and form a discussion group with five to ten individuals to discuss issues, plan strategies and take actions. Begin building the community you want to live in. We want to build 100 of these discussion groups. If we have 100 discussion groups we will be able to turn out 500 to a 1000 people to demonstrate, to knock on doors, to participate in social justice activities. Regardless of whomever is elected we will have built the movement we need to support the human rights and social justice changes that Sam Cooke wrote about in one of the greatest songs of all time A Change is Gonna Come.

If you want to join us TEXT (509) 934-3933 with your name, email address and zip code. We will let you know about discussion groups in your area.

Here are some things that you can do immediately:

Read 198 Methods of Nonviolent Action. Click: https://4comculture.com/archives/14129

Read about the 12 things needed for a movement. Click: Where Do You Want to Start?

Listen to Shaun King’s podcast and take his action steps. Click: The Breakdown

Coffee and Discussion Groups

Make phone calls or knock on doors to share your support.

Invite your friends and relatives to a Fill Out Your Ballot Party.

Get a sign for your yard, a t-shirt or button to show your support.

This message is the unsolicited opinion of the editors of 4comculture.com.

First Thursday Meeting At East Central Community Center Aug 2nd 10 AM 500 S Stone St.

Information on First Thursday Coffee Discussion