The source provides an extensive overview of the possessed ventriloquist doll as a fixture in horror and popular culture, examining its origins, psychological impact, and cultural significance. It traces the history of ventriloquism from ancient mystical practices to its evolution as entertainment, noting how its association with the supernatural laid the groundwork for its eerie reputation. Furthermore, the text analyzes the trope's prominence in horror fiction, citing influential examples like Dead of Night and the Goosebumps series, while also exploring the psychology behind the fear, particularly the concept of the uncanny valley and the primal fear of losing control. Finally, the source discusses the doll's role as a cultural symbol reflecting anxieties about technology and autonomy, connecting the fictional trope to real-life legends such as Robert the Doll.