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The fox, the hedgehog, and hypnosis
1Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720-1650, USA. kihlstrm@socrates.berkeley.edu
The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
|August 12, 2003
Summary
This study explores hypnosis through the lens of Isaiah Berlin's fox and hedgehog concepts. It contrasts monolithic, single-focused approaches with pluralistic, multifaceted strategies in hypnotic research and practice.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Isaiah Berlin's "The Hedgehog and the Fox" essay contrasts thinkers who know many things (foxes) with those who know one big thing (hedgehogs).
- This dichotomy offers a framework for analyzing different theoretical and practical approaches within scientific disciplines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply Berlin's fox and hedgehog concepts to the field of hypnosis.
- To differentiate between monolithic (hedgehog-like) and pluralistic (fox-like) perspectives on hypnosis.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis and theoretical comparison.
- Literature review of hypnosis research and theory.
Main Results:
- Monolithic approaches to hypnosis often focus on a single theory or technique, akin to the hedgehog.
- Pluralistic approaches acknowledge a wider range of factors and methods, reflecting the fox's diverse knowledge.
Conclusions:
- Understanding hypnosis may benefit from recognizing both concentrated and diverse theoretical frameworks.
- A pluralistic perspective may offer a more comprehensive understanding of hypnotic phenomena.
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