It is not so much that man is a herd animal, but that he is a horde animal led by a chief.

What did Sigmund Freud mean by:

It is not so much that man is a herd animal, but that he is a horde animal led by a chief.

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The quote suggests that humans are not just social creatures who prefer to live and interact within a group, like a herd of animals. Rather, humans are more similar to a horde, a large group that moves and acts collectively under the leadership of a chief. This implies that humans have a tendency to follow a leader, someone who has the power to influence and direct the group’s behavior.

This idea resonates with the concept of leadership in society. We often look up to and follow individuals who are charismatic, influential, or authoritative, whether in politics, business, or even in social circles. The leader’s role is not just to guide but also to provide a sense of security and direction, which is what humans, as horde animals, instinctively seek.

In the context of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a call to develop leadership skills. It suggests that to make an impact and influence others, one must step up to be a ‘chief’. It’s not just about being part of a group but being able to guide and inspire that group towards a common goal.

However, it also underlines the importance of critical thinking and individuality. While it’s natural for humans to follow a leader, it’s crucial to question and evaluate the direction in which we’re being led. This balance between leadership and followership, between individuality and collectivity, is what makes human society complex and dynamic.

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