Research source

Now, it seems plausible to suppose that, by way of analogy, the medium trance would represent a trance state…

Date of account: Published 1921
Source: The Problems of Psychical Research Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal
Reference: The Problems of Psychical Research Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal · selected passage 21
Rights: public_domain
Language: English
Record updated: 2026-08-24

Record summary

Now, it seems plausible to suppose that, by way of analogy, the medium trance would represent a trance state induced by hypnotism from the "other side." We know that telepathic hypnotism is a fact--the numerous cases recorded by Myers and Janet being good proof of this

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Source passage

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Now, it seems plausible to suppose that, by way of analogy, the medium trance would represent a trance state induced by hypnotism _from the "other side."_ We know that telepathic hypnotism is a fact--the numerous cases recorded by Myers and Janet being good proof of this. Further, we know that dreams may be induced experimentally, by means of telepathic suggestion. (See Ermacora's paper, _Proceedings_, xi. 235-308.) Might we not assume, then, that the medium-trance represents a certain condition induced by influence from deceased minds--which would fully account for the supernormal information given (for the medium would be _en rapport_ with these minds), and for the fact that the medium is not usually susceptible to suggestion, pain-tests, &c., on _this_ side. The deeper the trance, the more the medium is in touch with the other world, the less with this; and _vice versa_.

Historical context

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This comes from historical psychical research. Methods, witness handling and standards of evidence differ from present-day research and should be assessed from the cited passage and edition.

Modern context

Contextual commentary · mention only

The passage can support a history of claims and recurring descriptions. It does not establish a paranormal mechanism, and competing psychological, social and physical explanations remain relevant.

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