Mesmerism, Spiritualism, etc.

Delve into the intriguing world of the supernatural with Mesmerism, Spiritualism, etc. by William Benjamin Carpenter. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2011, this compelling paperback spans 178 pages and offers a critical examination of the rise of spiritualism in the 19th century. Carpenter, a prominent London medical researcher (1813–1885), challenges the widespread belief in spiritualism, which he regarded as 'epidemic delusions'. Through two insightful lectures originally delivered in 1877, he explores the historical and scientific contexts surrounding various occult practices, including mesmerism, thought-reading, and clairvoyance. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of science and the supernatural, providing a thought-provoking perspective on the phenomena that captivated society. Discover Carpenter's arguments and insights that remain relevant in today's discussions about the boundaries of science and belief.