I'm going to move this topic to extended discussion. Skurzura, if you have any more questions about hypnosis, feel free to ask or look around.

First off, you neglected to address the matter of memory, of supressing and revealing memories. What you are saying is that everything is a conscious choice. However, there are things that go on in our minds that we are not aware of as a result of physical or emotional processes.

When you talk of consciously supressing pain, you're talking about a process that takes a great deal of time. Not only does that person have to focus so intently on something else, on something stronger than pain, that person also has to overcome doubt. I doubt that everyone can do this, especially if they're trying to train themselves. Your theory and the theory of hypnosis are essentially the same in that they basically serve the same purpose. Your theory operates under the notion that there is no subconscious mind. Hypnosis operates under the notion that there is.

And your idea of "visual distraction" is faintly reminiscent of Douglas Adam's method of flying. You fall and simply distract yourself before you hit the ground... But I'll leave it at that.

The example that you gave is of progressive relaxation. It may affect the body and cause the mind to go into a more peaceful state, but it still involves conscious thought. When a person is mesmerized, conscious thought is absent, allowing external stimuli to have a greater impact on the subject. Hence one of my favorite saings: "If you don't make your own decisions, someone else will decide for you."




(And I don't want to sound too picky, but could use a period at the end of your sentences? commas? capitalization? I'm sorry, but your replies are difficult to read.)