The Lonely Crowd (David Riesman)

"The Lonely Crowd" by David Riesman analyzes how American society shapes individual personality types over time. He distinguishes between two main types: the "inner-directed," who rely on their own moral compass and values, and the "outer-directed," who are heavily influenced by social expectations and peer pressure. Riesman argues that contemporary Americans tend to become more outer-directed, seeking approval and fitting into societal norms, leading to feelings of alienation and loneliness. The book explores how social changes, like modernization and mass media, impact our sense of identity and community, highlighting the tension between personal authenticity and social conformity.