The Hidden Persuaders, Vance Packard, 1957, 5th Printing Hardcover

The Hidden Persuaders by Vance Packard is a landmark work of mid-century social criticism that examines the rise of advertising, marketing psychology, and mass persuasion in postwar America.

First published in 1957, the book explores how symbols, subconscious appeals, and motivational research were being used to influence consumers, voters, and public opinion, raising questions that remain strikingly relevant today. A foundational text for readers interested in media studies, marketing history, psychology, and 20th-century cultural criticism. Published by McKay.

Condition Notes
Hardcover with original dust jacket. Dust jacket shows noticeable wear including edge chipping, tears, scuffing, and surface rubbing, with some loss at corners. Orange cloth boards are clean overall with light wear to edges and spine. Interior pages are clean with light age toning; a previous owner’s name is written on a front endpaper. Copyright 1957; this is a fifth printing dated June 1957.