You Can't Be 'Put Under' Against Your Will — That's Not How Any of This Works

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. The 'mind control' myth persists because it's dramatic, not because it's true.

The Hollywood Version

In movies, hypnosis works like this: a mysterious figure swings a watch, murmurs something, and the subject becomes a mindless puppet. They'll do anything commanded, reveal any secret, act against their own interests.

This makes great cinema. It has no relationship to how hypnosis actually works.

What Actually Happens

Hypnosis is a collaborative process. The hypnotist provides guidance; the subject follows willingly. At every moment, the person being hypnotized is choosing to participate. They can refuse suggestions, open their eyes, or simply not cooperate.

Brain imaging confirms this. During hypnosis, regions associated with executive control remain active. You're not unconscious or in someone else's power—you're in an altered state that you can exit at any time.

The Consent Requirement

Hypnosis requires consent and cooperation. Attempts to hypnotize someone against their will simply fail. The person won't follow the induction process, won't enter trance, won't accept suggestions.

This is why ethical hypnotists always explain the process, answer questions, and obtain clear consent before beginning. It's not just ethics—it's practical. Without cooperation, hypnosis doesn't work.

What About Stage Hypnosis?

Stage hypnosis appears to show people doing embarrassing things against their will. But look closer:

• Volunteers self-select by coming on stage—they want to participate
• The context gives permission for unusual behavior—it's a show
• Social pressure from the audience creates compliance