The new oracle: Self-help books in American culture

Conclusion

The self-help book in America appears to occupy a social niche roughly on a par with that of the legendary oracle at Delphi. Offering wisdom and enlightenment at discount prices, it speaks to a vast audience on a variety of topics, and provides specific directions for achieving love, health, wealth, peace of mind, and any number of practical skills. It is too prevalent and powerful a phenomenon to overlook, despite its belonging to “pop” culture. Inasmuch as self-help books are dispensing advice to millions on matters physical, psychological, and spiritual, they cannot responsibly be ignored by social scientists and health care practitioners. Questions regarding their relative merits and potential dangers deserve careful consideration.