Mesmer

Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815) was an 18th-century physician who proposed the theory of animal magnetism, a supposed universal life force that could be manipulated to heal disease. His ideas gave rise to the practice known as mesmerism, which attracted wide attention in Europe and influenced early explorations of hypnotic techniques.

Theory and methods: Mesmer argued that planetary and earthly magnetism and a universal animal fluid flowed through all beings. He believed disease resulted from blockages or imbalances in this fluid and could be corrected by inducing trance states and through therapeutic passes performed with the hands, as well as the use of magnets or a baquet—a wooden tub filled with fluids and iron rods. He claimed to restore harmony by aligning the magnetic fluids within individuals.

Practice and demonstrations: Mesmer treated patients in private settings and organized public demonstrations in cities such as Vienna and Paris. His sessions often involved group treatments around the baquet and the creation of trance-like states in which patients appeared to be more responsive to suggestion.

Reception and controversy: Mesmer’s methods drew both adherents and critics, prompting formal investigations by medical authorities. In France, a royal commission established in 1784 concluded that there was no evidence for a physical magnetic fluid and attributed observed effects to imagination and suggestion. Although his influence waned, mesmerism persisted in popular culture and among some practitioners.

Legacy: Mesmer’s work is regarded as a precursor to modern hypnotism. The term mesmerism is largely historical, but his ideas contributed to the study of trance, suggestion, and therapeutic techniques that later evolved into hypnosis in the 19th century. His legacy is that of a controversial figure whose concepts helped shape the early exploration of hypnotic phenomena.