November 2001
Something to think about from Dr. Wil Horton
Mind Control: Fact or Fiction
Hitler's power to manipulate (mind control) is well documented. There are many texts that highlight his ability to present his world view as the listeners world view. His technique in large group speaking was quite dramatic to me, even though I know only a smattering of German. He would start slowly and quietly leaving large spaces between points. He would build up the pace and tone matching the response of his audience. This 'hypnotic' effect was noted by many listeners who considered themselves 'sophisticated'. He seemed to receive the power to control from the listener because he reached out to that part of them (us) deep inside the psyche which feels unfairly treated.
In addition his subordinates would present reinforcing scenarios which identified certain cultural anchors. In short his power to communicate was amplified by the first modern marketing campaign with music, songs, parades, resplendent uniforms and promises of hope through dominance and...... he was evil, which makes his ideas more attractive to those who complement his needs. We have felt those stirrings in ourselves when we experience the spectacle at a 'big' football or sport contest. Large groups seem to be susceptible to these emotions and can quickly turn a happy sport event into a destructive riot. My own guess is that the denial of this vulnerability makes the possibility greater. I present also the documented cases of female performers ( actors, athletes) who are dominated by male coaches. These performers are manipulated by the coach for his own needs be it sexual or psychological. It is again about dominance and an undeniable hypnotic effect.
This phenomena can be used for good effect, as well. The public response to the president's urging for volunteerism after the Sept.11th attack is an example of 'good' manipulation. It is a power we all have but some are 'more equal' than others. The single drum beat...repeated in solitary salute to a fallen comrade..a soldier...a president...leaves lasting impressions on us. . It's mournful beat signifying sadness but not defeat. It's effect can release the positive or the negative. Those special anchors can change lives for the better. How we have lived and believed before the event decides it's path.
While mind control is a repulsive thought, it is a fact of every day life in advertising, religion, politics, sport, media and cults. Find a need...'The' need that the person is unaware of, or denies and you gain the key to their vulnerabilities. To accept weakness in yourself becomes a strength to deny it a danger!
I'll paraphrase an oft used quote 'Know yourself or someone else will know you and place you at risk.'
Joe
Joseph J. Donahue M.Ed.
CMHC, CH, Master Practitioner NLP
Academic, Career, Sports & Performance Counseling