What's What in America

A series of short essays examines American character and social life, probing widespread credulity and belief in spiritualist and pseudoscientific movements and explaining how fads such as Christian Science, osteopathy, phrenology, and physiognomy reflect popular habits of thought. Other pieces address superstition, stage occultism, and ghost stories, while additional essays treat economic and civic problems including strikes, profiteering, and the high cost of living. The collection closes with reflections on the public, popularity, greatness, manners, and everyday customs ranging from gambling to weddings.