Who proposed that the body acts like a magnet and theorized the existence of animal magnetism?

Franz Anton Mesmer is recognized for proposing the concept that the human body functions similarly to a magnet and introduced the idea of animal magnetism. Mesmer believed that this magnetic field could influence health and contribute to healing, which led to the development of mesmerism—a precursor to modern hypnotic techniques. His theories suggested that an unseen force could be manipulated to restore balance within the body, affecting mental and physical health. His work laid an early foundation for discussions about the mind-body connection, influencing later psychological practices.

In contrast, Emil Kraepelin is known for his classification of mental disorders and advancements in psychiatric diagnosis. Josef Breuer is famous for his work with Anna O. and the early development of psychoanalysis alongside Sigmund Freud, particularly focusing on the psychological rather than the physical. Philippe Pinel is often credited with humanitarian reforms in the treatment of the mentally ill, advocating for more compassionate approaches to care and the removal of restraints from patients, but he did not propose the magnetic theories that Mesmer did.