Eric Hoffer (July 25, 1902 – May 21, 1983) was an American social writer. He was the author of ten books and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in February 1983. His first book, The True Believer, published in 1951, was widely recognized as a classic, receiving critical acclaim from both scholars and laymen, although Hoffer believed that his book The Ordeal of Change was his finest work. In 2001, the Eric Hoffer Award was established in his honor with permission granted by the Eric Hoffer Estate in 2005.
Read more about Eric Hoffer: Biography, Working Class Roots, On The Nature and Origins of Mass Movements, Views and Opinions, Hoffer's Papers, Published Works, Interviews, Awards and Recognition
Famous quotes by eric hoffer:
“No matter what our achievements might be, we think well of ourselves only in rare moments. We need people to bear witness against our inner judge, who keeps book on our shortcomings and transgressions. We need people to convince us that we are not as bad as we think we are.”
—Eric Hoffer (1902–1983)
“Nationalist pride, like other variants of pride, can be a substitute for self-respect.”
—Eric Hoffer (1902–1983)
“It still holds true that man is most uniquely human when he turns obstacles into opportunities.”
—Eric Hoffer (1902–1983)
“The individual who has to justify his existence by his own efforts is in eternal bondage to himself.”
—Eric Hoffer (1902–1983)
“When people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other.”
—Eric Hoffer (1902–1983)