Unconscious compliance and behavior under hypnosis

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People under hypnosis might exhibit behaviors they are unconsciously following, even if they are not aware of the true circumstances. In a TV show experiment involving an acid test, participants were told to throw acid at someone upon waking, but given water instead. Despite knowing they were in a TV studio, they all followed through with the action, showcasing how unconscious compliance can influence behavior under hypnosis.

In this remote Science Salon, Michael Shermer talks with Derren Brown, a British magician and writer.

His TV show Derren Brown: Mind Control received immediate success after airing in 2000. His specials include Russian Roulette, Seance, The Heist, Hero at 30,000 Feet, How to Predict the Lottery, and Apocalypse. His live shows Something Wicked This Way Comes and Svengali have won him two Olivier Awards. He garnered the 2012 BAFTA for Best Entertainment for Derren Brown: The Experiments. He has also penned the books Tricks of the Mind and Confessions of a Conjuror, which have sold over 700,000 copies worldwide.

His latest book is Happy: Why More or Less Everything is Absolutely Fine. Derren is currently in the US for his off-Broadway show Secret (April 21st – June 25th, 2017), which has already sold out and has been extended with additional dates.

Derren Brown makes his American theatrical debut in this world premiere production at Atlantic Theater Company. New York audiences can experience Derren’s unique blend of mind-reading, suggestion and psychological illusion in a brand new theatrical experience.