MESMERISM, n. Hypnotism before it wore good clothes, kept…
“MESMERISM, n. Hypnotism before it wore good clothes, kept a carriage and asked Incredulity to dinner.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Hypnotism is mocked as a dressed‑up version of old tricks, highlighting skepticism toward new fads.
In simple terms: Old tricks repackaged as new.
Key Takeaway
Question the novelty of popular trends.
Themes
skepticism
hypnotism
culture
language
humor
Mood
witty
satirical
Type
critical
humorous
When to use this quote
- medical claims
- self‑help fads
- political rhetoric
- marketing slogans
Key Concepts
social critique
linguistic play
historical perspective
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern practices might be dismissed similarly?
- When does skepticism become cynicism?
A Different Perspective
The definition is humorous and may dismiss genuine therapeutic uses.