Chapter 3 - The Origins of Myth - For Discussion

Q1. What is peer group pressure? How does it cause one to conform?

A1. It is the social force, which is magnified when the focus is on the actor. There are a number of responses to any one suggestion. Peer group pressure reduces those options to those which are acceptable in line with the hierarchy of the group, values and norms of the group and initial source of the transaction and the game it emanated from.

It can cause people to only chose those options which they feel will be accepted by the group in order to remain in or obtain an achieved or ascribed position.

Q2. What qualities might allow one to resist peer group pressure? In general, are these positive or negative?

A2. This text suggests energy and inner strength. I feel those qualities in isolation are seldom sufficient. I think stealth, guile, wonder and mindfulness are useful qualities.

I think all of these are positive qualities.

Q3. How do one's expectations influence one's experiences? How is a "self-fulfilling prophecy" likely to be part of a stage hypnosis show?

A3. Your expectations are a script, it only has a few endings dependent on your adopted or written script. Expectations of a stage show are that you either are or are not going to be hypnotised, those who go to be controlled and uninhibited will do so and will be identified selected to do so by the hypnotist.

Q4. How does a fear of losing control of one's self surface in everyday behaviour? Cite examples.

A4. If the 'record' is the audible visible present the one whose acts are represented in that time and space is the focal point for themselves if alone and the group if in the presence of company. They exist, they can hear it they can feel it through either by being vocal or acting physically on the scene around them.

When an entity, item or stimulus encroaches on that reality, all manner of actions take place. People tap loudly as if to 'earth' themselves with reality, they look away to avoid in infiltration of their reality by an incoming presence.

They attempt to stop the stimulus.

They jump in on stories told, walk away from uncomfortable stimuli. Change the game afoot to revolve around them or others. Create games which have probable outcomes to feel in control. they suggest they are in control, they create problems that do not exist in order to know they are the only one free of the control.

Q5. What fears did you or do you have about experiencing trance? What apprehensions do you have about hypnotising others?

A5. I fear that there would be lasting emotional echoes of suggestion communicated during trance. I used to feel that is was an unethical use of power, now i know there is no power issues if practised in good faith and to do good.

I fear that i would be 'outed' as a user of hypnosis, and with that tried socially under the misconceptions of what hypnosis is perceived to be in the media as discussed in this text. I am concerned that I would be considered dangerous.