Editorial December 2, 1950 Issue

WITHOUT BASIS IN FACT OR BELIEF

Richard J. Davis

As physicians and psychiatrists have gone increasingly deeper into the exploration and study of the human or mortal mind, we find that in current magazines and the press there is a growing and more open discussion of hypnotism and its so-called effects. Colleges and universities are carrying on what they have termed scientific experiments in various phases of mesmerism and thought transference. The practice of hypnotism is becoming more frequent, and therefore is to some extent a matter of public exploitation and knowledge. Some months ago a well-known psychiatrist announced in a popular magazine that hypnotism could now be used as a weapon in warfare and could be practiced upon a so-called enemy without his knowledge or consent. This statement perhaps calls for some comment from the standpoint of Christian Science.

Without an understanding of the entirely false and unscientific nature of hypnotism, the general public might be led to believe that hypnotism is true in theory and legitimate in practice. The public may, if not otherwise enlightened, be led to accept the reality of hypnotism as it does disease. By giving publicity to hypnotism and its claims, its advocates may think they can develop a general acquiescence in its practice and an increased acceptance of its false theories.

The oneness and allness of God, as revealed in Christian Science, renders belief in and fear of hypnotism an impossibility. Coincident with her discovery of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy revealed to humanity the utterly false basis of mesmerism, or hypnotism. She uncovered in her writings its evil and unethical character; but what is most important, she revealed the spiritually scientific understanding whereby its claim to power is annulled and destroyed. Mrs. Eddy's inspired teaching presents the only way whereby mankind, individually and collectively, may be forever defended from the claims of mesmeric manipulation.

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WITHOUT BASIS IN FACT OR BELIEF

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