The Power of Suggestion?

So I was browsing some videos, and I came across this one called "Covert Hypnosis". Now, I know a little bit about hypnosis and one of the "cardinal rules" is that you can't be hypnotized unless you want to. So I blew this off almost as fast as I read it. Especially when I went to the website and it was one of those "submit your email here" to learn more type of things *Then I watched the video* and my opinion changed almost immediatly. Did the hypnosis work on me? Hmm.. I felt quite enlightened after watching this video, though I'm not sure I would call it hypnosis, as much as manipulation. I know it has happened to me. I would get all frustrated about something (or someone) and walk in to talk to him/her about it. Within 20 minutes I would start feeling re-assured and better so I would walk back to my desk. Then 20 minutes after that I would think, wait a minute - what just happened here? Not only did I not get my problem resolved, I was actually "made" to feel better about the bad situation I was in. Has this ever happened to you? Maybe it's just natural charm, or maybe it's something else - I'm not sure. Some people definitly have an uncanny ability to convince others of total hogwash. After watching this video I can see more clearly now how it is they do it. Perhaps it is not intentional, perhaps they can't explain how they do it, but they do. It does seem we can be influenced (unconsiously?) I suppose if you are unaware you are doing this - it is somewhat acceptable as natural charisma, but if you know you are doing this to someone, actively manipulating them to get what you want is it really ethical? and is there anyway to defend against it. I suppose, when I think about it, this type of thing is everywhere, mostly in advertising and is similar to propaganda. In the end You'll have to decide for yourself.

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