Hidden Depths: The Story of Hypnosis

Robin Waterfield

Psychology Press, 2003 - Psychology - 464 pages

In Hidden Depths, Robin Waterfield explores the fascinating world of hypnosis, tracing the history of this often misunderstood craft beginning with a passage in the book of Genesis, and continuing through his own personal experiences today. Waterfield uses the history and controversy surrounding the practice of hypnosis to gain insight into our behavior and psychology, and considers how hypnotic techniques have been absorbed into society through advertising, media and popular culture.

Contents

• Hypnosis in Fact and Fiction: 1
• In the Beginning: 42
• Franz Anton Mesmer: 64
• Magnetic Sleep and Victors Sister: 105
• Crusaders and Prophets in the United States: 132
• Mesmeric Mania in the United Kingdom: 157
• Murder Rape and Debate in the Late Nineteenth Century: 211
• Psychic Powers and Recovered Memories: 234
• Freud and Other Alienists: 274
• State or No State The Modern Controversy: 299
• Hypnotherapy Mind and Body: 325
• Mind Control: 356
• Selfimprovement and the New Age: 386
• A Plea: 412
• In Mesmers Footsteps: 418
• References: 421
• Bibliography: 427
• Index of Names: 447
• Index of Subjects: 454

About the author

Robin Waterfield is the author of over twenty-five books, ranging from children's fiction to biography and translations of ancient Greek texts. Hidden Depths is the product of a lifelong interest in human potential and psychology. At present he is Writer in Residence at the University of Sussex.

Bibliographic information

• Title: Hidden Depths: The Story of Hypnosis
• Author: Robin Waterfield
• Edition: illustrated, reprint
• Publisher: Psychology Press, 2003
• ISBN: 041594791X, 9780415947916
• Length: 464 pages
• Subjects: Psychology / History; Psychology / Hypnotism; Psychology / Psychotherapy / General