How many folks have a common word derived from their identity-name?
Just came across this biodrama of Anton Mesmer
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110496/
I looked up mesmerizing in several online dictionaries, and yet non mentioned the man from whom the word was coined.
Who invented hypnotism.. can't say , but to the public he might as well have.
Some theorize it's principles were use by the Druids and other ancient cultures.
My table dictionary has an annotation but no mention of Mesmer's discoveries-work.
No doubt because his reputation as a showman and healer sullied his reputation as a
serious researcher-doctor among the medical establishment. Just my guess.
I expect others here, have more knowledge of him and hypnosis .....
but the fact a household word was coined after his name interested me.
The movie IS worth seeing , and though a bit melodramatic, is better than I'd expected.
As it focuses more on his healing methods than hypnosis itself.