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C h e c k o u t A B M P 's P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 47 Glossary These terms 11 belong to a cluster of philosophies and historical movements often grouped under the umbrella term "esoteric traditions." They are the subject of a dedicated, interdisciplinary field of study within the History of Ideas. In the past 25 years, the field has developed rapidly (though it was neglected for decades), uncovering the great impact these ideas have had on both culture and science. They have had an intense influence on some branches of the "healing arts," some of which is still visible. • Mesmerism: A theory and doctrine based on "animal magnetism" developed by Franz Mesmer (1734–1815) according to which: "A responsive influence exists between the heavenly bodies, the earth, and animated bodies; a fluid universally diffused, [. . .] continuous, [. . .] incomparably subtle, and naturally susceptible of receiving, propagating, and communicating all motor disturbances, is the means of this influence; this reciprocal action is subject to mechanical laws; properties are displayed, analogous to those of the magnet, particularly in the human body, in which diverse and opposite poles are likewise to be distinguished, and these may be communicated, changed, destroyed, and reinforced." Mesmer based this theory on Newtonian fluid dynamics combined with planetary correspondences. He developed treatments based on his theories, and despite criticism, he had hundreds of followers. Mesmerism strongly influenced polarity therapy, homeopathy, and a number of other approaches featuring polarities and fluids. 12 • Paracelsianism: Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim (1493–1541) was a Swiss doctor, alchemist, and philosopher. He is credited as the father of toxicology, establishing that dosage makes a poison or remedy, and was known for his emphasis on the academic study of chemistry. With strongly vitalistic beliefs, Paracelsus believed that the microcosm of the body and the macrocosm of the universe were connected and followed the ancient theory of correspondences and resemblance to choose medications. He also wrote long treatises on alchemy and philosophy. Paracelsianism was the early modern medical and philosophical movement inspired by his work. One of his most famous quotes is: "The art of healing comes from nature, not from the physician. Therefore the physician must start from nature, with an open mind." • Rosicrucianism: The Rosicrucian idea that swept Europe in the mid-17th century combined alchemy, healing, mathematics, and mechanical arts with a vision of universal wisdom, spiritual illumination, and an initiatory path aiming at the rectification of mankind and nature within a belief that the end of the world and a new age of bliss was arriving. It took form in the Rosicrucian Manifestos, three anonymous texts written in the early 17th century, whose powerful symbology exercised a strong influence on esoteric circles for centuries to come. Members of the fraternity were bound to follow six main rules, which included directives to cure the sick, "and that gratis"; to avoid wearing a distinctive "habit," but to observe the custom of their country; to spread knowledge; and to meet once a year. The Rosicrucian idea sparked such interest in esoteric circles across Europe that real Rosicrucian brotherhoods quickly emerged and exist to this day. Rosicrucian healing is based in part on the protoscientific practice of alchemy, which involves refining and rectifying body and soul by supporting and helping nature. • Theosophy: A spiritual society established in New York, later with headquarters in India, by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831–1891) that combined spiritualism, various Western esoteric currents, and what was termed "occult science" in an attempt to scientize beliefs and phenomena in order to legitimize them in the context of the new secular age. Blavatsky's Theosophic Society (TS) was characterized by syncretism: the combining of diverse theories and beliefs into a common whole, regardless of their historical differences. Enormously influential with a large following and readership, the TS remains an active society with global membership that strongly supports education and retains strong ties with many "traditional" healing practices. SOMATIC RESE ARCH