I think that’s a pretty closed off view of self help. Especially since earlier generations, particularly men, were sold the whole “men don’t cry” and “put up or shut up”. Essentially gaslit entire generations believing that forcing down emotions and emotional introspection out of their lives was the right thing to do. So it filled a market gap. Especially ones written by professionals, specifically in mental health or philosophy.

I’ve also seen (and personally received) testimonials on their effects. Shit people have literally read their way out of a smoking addiction (Alan Carr for my dart munching friends). That’s not to say there isn’t a lot of trash out there cashing in. Just the “everyone knows they don’t work” line irked me into replying.