Animal magnetism
Animal magnetism (pronounced: /ˈænɪməl ˈmæɡnɪtɪzəm/) is a term coined by the German doctor Franz Mesmer in the 18th century. The term refers to a supposed invisible natural force possessed by all living beings, including humans, animals, and vegetables.
Etymology
The term "animal magnetism" was first used by Mesmer, who believed that the phenomenon was akin to magnetism, which could be transferred between animate and inanimate bodies. The word "animal" in this context refers to the Latin "animalis" meaning having breath, living, or of a living being.
Concept
Animal magnetism is believed to be a natural energy transference that occurs between all animated and inanimate objects. This energy, or life force, is known by many different names depending on culture and context, including prana, chi, and qi. Mesmer's theory attracted a wide following between about 1780 and 1850, and continued to have some influence until the end of the century.
Related Terms
- Mesmerism: A technique related to animal magnetism, named after Franz Mesmer, which involves the hypnotic induction of a "mesmeric trance" in a subject.
- Hypnotism: A psychological state with physiological attributes superficially resembling sleep and marked by an individual's level of awareness other than the ordinary conscious state.
- Vitalism: The belief in the existence of vital energy or life force, similar to animal magnetism, that is distinct from physical and chemical forces and is considered to be the cause of all life.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Animal magnetism
- Wikipedia's article - Animal magnetism
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