MESMER, FREDRICH ANTON

(1734 - 1815) Austrian physician after whom mesmerism was named. Mesmerism is the doctrine or system according to which a hypnotic state, usually accompanied by insensibility to pain and muscular rigidity, can be induced by a n influence (at first known as "animal magnetism") exercised by a n operator over the will and nervous system of the patient. —Secrets of the Mest Universe Glossary (approved 26-9-90)

(1734 - 1815) Austrian physician after whom mesmerism was named. Mesmerism is the doctrine or system according to which a hypnotic state, usually accompanied by insensibility to pain and muscular rigidity, can be induced by an influence (at first known as "animal magnetism") exercised by an operator over the will and nervous system of the patient.