The Romance of American Psychology: Political Culture in the Age of Experts

Psychology has emerged as a powerful cultural authority, shaping everything from family structure to government policy. In this book, Ellen Herman explores how psychology became the source of contemporary America's most potent ideology during the post-World War II era. She examines the marriage of politics and psychology, which continued through the 1960s, and how psychological professionals' influence spread among the general public.

Format: Hardback
Length: 422 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Psychological insight has emerged as a powerful force in our contemporary world, evolving from a relatively quiet academic discipline to a significant cultural authority. Just two generations ago, psychology was a relatively unknown field, but it has now become a powerful voice that shapes various aspects of society, from family structures to government policies. In this groundbreaking book, Ellen Herman explores the remarkable journey of psychology's rise to prominence in post-World War II America.

The book begins by examining the context in which psychology emerged as a significant force. The atmosphere of crisis that persisted from the 1940s through the Cold War provided psychologists with an opportunity to validate their social theories and behavioral techniques. Psychologists, sociologists, and anthropologists carved a niche within government, influencing military, foreign, and domestic policy.

Herman delves into the intricate relationship between politics and psychology, highlighting how these two fields have intertwined throughout history. She explores how psychological professionals gained influence within the government, shaping policies that impacted society. The book also examines how the public became increasingly receptive to psychological insights, seeking guidance and enlightenment from these experts.

The influence of psychological professionals extended beyond the government. Their opinions and ideas validated postwar social movements, such as civil rights and feminism, and became the basis of a new world view. The public's fascination with psychology led to a surge in demand for mental health services, and psychologists became sought-after experts in the field.

This book is a fascinating and long overdue exploration of one of the dominant forces in American society. It sheds light on the ways in which psychology has influenced our understanding of human behavior, our social interactions, and our political decisions. It is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the impact that it can have on our lives.

The book is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates the University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology, allowing readers to access valuable knowledge that may have been previously out of reach.

This title was originally published in 1995, but its relevance and importance remain as strong as ever. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between psychology, politics, and culture, and the ways in which these forces have shaped our world.

Weight: 771g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520357037