Animal magnetism
Animal magnetism, also known as mesmerism, is a term coined by the German doctor Franz Mesmer in the 18th century. Mesmer believed that there was a natural energetic transference that occurred between all animated and inanimate objects that he called "animal magnetism", sometimes later referred to as mesmerism. The theory attracted a wide following between about 1780 and 1850, and continued to have some influence until the end of the century.
History[edit | edit source]
Franz Mesmer (1734–1815) was a German doctor with an interest in astronomy. He theorised the existence of a natural energy transference occurring between all animated and inanimate objects; this he called "animal magnetism". Mesmer's ideas became popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Theory[edit | edit source]
Mesmer's theory of animal magnetism held that certain individuals have a powerful magnetic fluid in their bodies that influences disease. He believed that this magnetic fluid could be manipulated to treat illness.
Influence[edit | edit source]
Animal magnetism had a significant influence on the emerging field of psychology, particularly in the areas of hypnosis and psychoanalysis. It also influenced the development of spiritualism and theosophy.
Criticism[edit | edit source]
Critics of animal magnetism argue that there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of a magnetic fluid in the human body. They also point out that many of the effects attributed to animal magnetism can be explained by suggestion or the placebo effect.
See also[edit | edit source]
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