Charismatic Reactions to Individuals and Ideas: Looks, Language and Lincoln

Religions

关键词: charisma;    Lincoln;    Freud;    biblical;   

DOI  :  10.3390/rel4020209

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

This paper explores the application of Freud’s theories of leadership and group psychology to the case of Abraham Lincoln. It argues that followers’ needs for charismatic leaders propel them to construct heroic and charismatic cognitive representations of leaders who give the impression of power and who represent the ideal qualities of the group. Both leaders and their ideas can create an emotional connection with followers. During his lifetime, Americans developed charismatic and heroic interpretations of Abraham Lincoln’s appearance. They also responded positively to Lincoln’s use of biblical rhythms and phrases in his speeches and writings.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2013 by the author; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.