Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

by Robert B. Cialdini

For instance, at the time of the American Revolution, colonists had the highest standard of living and the lowest taxes in the Western world.

Panic! Something must be done at once before logic takes its toll and leaves them without hope once again. Quickly, quickly, walls against reason are needed, and it doesn’t matter that the fortress to be erected is a foolish one. “Quick, a hiding place from thought! Here, take this money. Whew, safe in the nick of time. No need to think about the issues any longer.”