attention to the details observable in each, briefly and concisely,
that we may hasten on to the general subject of the book. I. The Suggestion of Authority: This form of suggestion manifests along both the lines of impression and induction, respectively. That is to say, Suggestion by Authority manifests both in the positive authoritative statements directed to the point; and also by the spoken or written statements made by those who speak or write with an air of authority. It is a peculiarity of the human mind that it is inclined to listen with respect and credence to the words, written or spoken, of persons who assume the air of authority and knowledge. The same person who will weigh carefully every proposition of those whom he considers to be his equals, or inferiors, will accept the statements of those whom he considers to possess authority or knowledge exceeding his own, without more than a casual questioning, and sometimes without questioning or doubt whatsoever. Let some person posing as an authority, or occupying a position of command, calmly state a fallacy with an air of wisdom and conviction, without any ifs or buts, and many otherwise careful people will accept the suggestion without question; and unless they are afterward forced to analyze it by the light of reason, they will let this seed idea find lodgment in their minds, blossom and bear fruit thereafter. The explanation is that in such cases the person suspends the critical attention which is usually interposed by the attentive will, and allows the idea to enter his mental castle unchallenged, thereafter to dwell at home there and, to influence other ideas in the future. It is like a man assuming a lordly air and marching past the watchman at the gate of the mental fortress, where the ordinary visitor is challenged and severely scrutinized; his credentials examined; and the mark of approval placed upon him before he may enter. The acceptance of such suggestions is akin to a person bolting a particle of food, instead of masticating it. As a rule we bolt many a bit of mental provender, owing to its stamp of Suggestion of Authority. 13 real or pretended authority. And many persons understanding this phase of suggestion, take advantage of it, and use it in their business accordingly. The confidence-man, as well as the shrewd politician and the seller of neatly printed gold mines, imposes himself upon the public by means of an air of authority, or by what is known in the parlance of the busy streets, as putting up a good front. Some men are all front, and have nothing behind their authoritative air but that authoritative air provides them with a living. As Bulwer-Lytton makes one of his characters say: Whenever you are about to utter something astonishingly false, always begin with, It is an acknowledged fact, etc. Many a false statement has been accepted when prefaced with a I assert without fear of contradiction, etc. Or, It is generally conceded by the best authorities, that, etc. Or, The best-sources of information agree, etc. Often there is this variation: As you probably know, sir, etc. But in many cases there is not even this preface the statement is made with a Thus saith the Lord manner, and is accepted because of the tone and manner accompanying it. As a rule these authoritative suggestions are not accompanied by argument or logical proof they are thrust at you as selfevident truths. Or, if argument there be, it is generally but a few specious comparisons of bits of sophistry, offered to quiet the mental conscience of the person. Many authoritative suggestions are crystallized into epigrammatic axiomic phrases, which are accepted as true because of their patness, and apparent smartness, without analysis on the part of those to whom they are offered. Political catch-words, and current explanations belong to this class. Many a phrase is accepted by the public because it sounds good, without any regard to the truth stated in it. It would not be so bad if it were merely the acceptance of the suggestion of authority in itself. But that is only the beginning of the trouble, for the suggested idea once admitted to the mind without question takes up its abode there and colors