In this episode, we probe into mind control and unearth the hidden mechanics of influence behind why we do what we do. From religion to governments to magic, everyone’s interested in controlling the minds of others. Is it even possible to have an original thought anymore? Covering everything from hypnosis to truth serums, we debate whether we’re preventing or already living in the worlds of 1984 and Brave New World.

Episode Resources & Easter Eggs:

Episode Bookshelf:

• Have you read George Orwell’s 1984 or Animal Farm? (Hi, Big Brother :).)
• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley: this guy definitely did drugs.
• Hear Amanda’s longer take on The Trial by Kafka.
• Learn how to win friends and influence people.
• Initiate yourself into Hermetics with Franz Bardon.
• Propaganda: Jacque Ellul.
• Hear from another Amanda in Montell’s The Age of Magical Overthinking.

Movies and Media:

• The Men Who Stare at Goats – Not our favorite movie, but an interesting concept.
• Love medical dramas? Try some of our recent favs: ThePitt and The Resident.

Hypnosis?

• Take the Mayo Clinic’s word for it.
• You might be feeling sleepy. Before you drift off, don’t forget to like and rate us 5 stars.

Adbusters:

• Remember this ad? Warning: Completely unforgettable, and not in a good way.
• Make the Marines proud by watching this ad.
• Can you beat James in the corporate logo quiz? He got 31/32 before calling it quits!

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