BRAINWASHING: The Story of Men Who Defied It

by Edward Hunter ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

A foreign correspondent and the author of Brainwashing in Red China (Vanguard, 1951) Edward Hunter adds a new chapter to the material in his former book in a report, through interviews and discussions, on the methods that can be used to combat brainwashing. One bridles a little at the sensationalist approach; Mr. Hunter seems a self appointed revealer of this new thing called brainwashing and pays small heed to historical counterparts. Nevertheless the accumulated data on Pavlov, on Russian techniques and on these techniques in practice make compelling, frightening reading. Specific reports range all the way from studies of particular individuals such as Sam an, an engineer, and one of the first to undergo, brainwashing, to the effect of indoctrination on groups such as the Negro p.o.w.'s who failed completely to be won over by the illogic of the Red appeal to their sense of injustice. Though the description of Russian techniques of ""corticovisceral psychiatry""- of stimulating fear, resentment, frustration, guilt- the emotions that make men pliable- has its accuracy, the combative methods seem hazy in comparison. While education, integrity and the ability to weigh values and the ability to fool the enemy are important, far more stress is placed on abstracts like faith, loyalty, steadfastness of purpose. In sum, the book seems a far better preparation for what to expect in a brainwashing than a prescription for defense- which must include something far deeper than an immediate call to convictions and wiles as well as a finer appreciation of the telling effects of extreme pain and possible death. However, gear prospects for this to the obvious current reader interest.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: 1153452006

Page Count: -

Publisher: Farrar, Straus

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1956

Categories: NONFICTION