Thomas Erikson

Thomas Erikson is a Swedish behaviorist, author, and public speaker renowned for his bestselling "Surrounded by" series, which explores human behavior and communication. His most notable work, "Surrounded by Idiots," has been translated into over 40 languages and ranks among the world’s best-selling non-fiction books. The series, comprising both fiction and non-fiction titles, has sold over 8 million copies globally. Erikson’s mission is to enhance self-awareness and improve interpersonal communication, a theme central to his writing and speaking engagements.

With nearly three decades of experience, Erikson specializes in practical tools for effective communication, addressing topics such as leadership, narcissism, and self-awareness. His approach combines storytelling with humor, making complex behavioral concepts accessible to a broad audience. Despite facing early skepticism about his writing ambitions, he persevered, refining his craft over two decades before achieving publication success. Today, he is Sweden’s most translated active author, surpassed only by literary legends Selma Lagerlöf and Astrid Lindgren.

Beyond writing, Erikson is a sought-after keynote speaker, delivering approximately 120 lectures annually. He runs a family business offering online courses and masterclasses aligned with his books’ themes. Residing in the Swedish countryside with his wife, Christina, a prominent romance author, Erikson balances his professional pursuits with hobbies like gardening and collecting vintage Land Rovers. His enduring passion for behavioral science continues to drive his work, with twelve published books and ongoing projects reinforcing his commitment to fostering better human understanding.
The Surrounded by Idiots Books
# Title Year
1 Surrounded by Psychopaths 2017
2 Surrounded by Bad Bosses 2018
3 Surrounded by Idiots 2019
4 Surrounded by Setbacks 2020
5 Surrounded by Narcissists 2022
6 Surrounded by Energy Vampires 2023
7 Surrounded by Liars 2024