Re: [tips] Mesmer

[Maxwell Gwynn]

F. A. Mesmer (circa 1770) was one of the forefathers of hypnosis (animal magnetism/mesmerism). He produced "crises" in female patients (most of whom were "hysterical"), and made many claims which were subsequently dispelled by a royal commission which included Ben Franklin. The commission concluded that the effects of mesmerism were likely produced by imagination and suggestions, and rebuked the notions of animal magnetism and a "universal fluid" which affected behaviours.   James Braid, a Scottish neurosurgeon, later coined the term "hypnotism" circa 1840.   Examples of the seeming "hypnotizing" of animals include chicken paralysis. See YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBtHC-yUwSc . Frog hypnosis is less common; see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByhaBjm8WJ0. These examples, of course, have absolutely nothing to do with hypnosis as we know it.   -Max Gwynn   Maxwell Gwynn, PhD Psychology Department Wilfrid Laurier University 519-884-0710 ext 3854 [EMAIL PROTECTED]   >>> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 8/28/2008 11:43 AM >>>   Apparently there is some connection between mesmerism and hypnosis? Did Mesmer make claims about behavioral changes  similar to the claims of hypnotism? And why am I thinking of frogs on their backs somewhere in the mix?  Michael Sylvester,PhD Daytona Beach,Florida     --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly ([EMAIL PROTECTED])