I’ve heard so many quotes from this work that I was really surprised by how short it is–it’s less than 7,000 words, whereas the book of Genesis is over 38,000. It’s pretty packed with good stuff, though. If a few of Allen’s individual arguments seem weak it is only because of the completeness with which he treats the topic. His message is clear and well-supported: thoughts are much more powerful than most realize, with a reach far beyond the limits of the mind.

The table of contents reads:

• Thoughts and Character
• Effect of Thought on Circumstances
• Effect of Thought on Health and the Body
• Thought and Purpose
• The Thought-Factor in Achievement
• Visions and Ideals
• Serenity

Some choice quotes:

As the plant springs from, and could not be without, the seed, so every act of a man springs from the hidden seeds f thought, and could not have appeared without them.

…cause and effect is as absolute and undeviating in the hidden realm of thought as in the world of visible and material things.

Man is made or unmade by himself; in the armory of thought he forges the weapons of which he destroys himself; he also fashions the tools with which he builds for himself heavenly mansions of joy and strength and peace.

Circumstance does not make the man; it reveals him to himself.

Men are anxious to improve their circumstances, but are unwilling to improve themselves; they therefore remain bound.

Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become.

As a Man Thinketh is available from Project Gutenberg.