"Many cases of what has traditionally been called "mass hysteria" are examined in this study. Beginning with a concise history of mass hysteria and social delusions, the author differentiates between the two and investigates cases, both in closed settings (such as work and school) and in communities. Cases throughout history are discussed, from medieval dance manias to the 1997 "Pokemon panic" that hospitalized children in Japan. Also examined are collective delusions, including urban legends and mass panics. The book ends with a look toward the future of this subject."--Jacket.