The Inner Source: Exploring Hypnosis With Dr. Herbert Spiegel

by Donald S. Connery

Briefly traces the career of one of the world's foremost authorities on hypnosis, describes the nature of the trance state, and outlines the medical uses of hypnosis

Paperback

First published September 1, 1982

Reviews

[Eric Geoffroy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an interesting read. The book is full of anecdotal reports about Dr. Spiegel, though a fair amount of his research and results are tainted with false equivocation and causation. There is not much clinical data, no mention of his results being replicated under strict conditions. His techniques were progressive and unconventional. He experimented on patients regularly and this is common for hypnotherapists, here it feels sketchy since he was a licensed M.D. practicing in hospitals. The book's author is a good writer and chapters feel the right length and material is introduced clearly. You'll get a sense of idolization towards Dr. Spiegel, from the author and a slightly more critical approach would have been better. By the halfway point it was getting so bad I was saying- hey Donald, maybe you should marry Herbert since you're head over heels.

It's a decent book, but a lot of his work has been debunked, and if you are new to hypnosis or neurology, you might pick up some misconceptions.