Crowd psychology

Crowd psychology characterises the group dynamics of a large group (or "crowd").

Negatively construed as a "mob", positively seen as the expression of popular democracy, crowds have a reputation for fickle, often irrational and potentially violent behaviour. But skilled organisation and appropriate ceremonial can artificially promote intense solidarity and enthusiasm in them.

Early work on crowd psychology came from Gustave Le Bon.

Compare: LGAT, Nuremberg rally, mob mentality, groupthink.