Phineas Parkhurst Quimby

My Theory

(Extract from a Letter)
December 1859

All effects produced on the human frame are the result of a chemical change of the fluids, with or without our knowledge; and all the varieties and changes are accompanied by a peculiar state of mind. If the mind should be directed to any particular organ, that organ might become deranged, or it might not. In either case, the trouble is in the mind; for the body is only the house for the mind to dwell in, and we put a value upon it, according to its worth. Therefore, if your mind has been deceived by some invisible enemy into a belief, you have put it into the form of a disease, with or without your knowledge.

By with my theory (or truth), I come in contact with your enemy and restore you to health and happiness. This I do, partly mentally and partly, by talking, till I correct the wrong impressions and establish the truth - and the truth is the cure. I use no medicines of any kind and make no applications. I am no spiritualist, after the manner of the Rochester rappings, and I am not dictated to by any living man, but am guided by the dictations of my own conscience, as a lawyer is, in pleading a case, governed by the evidence.

A sick man is like a criminal cast into prison for disobeying some law that man has set up. I plead his case, and if I get the verdict, the criminal is set at liberty. If I fail, I lose the case. His own judgment is his judge. His feelings are his evidence. If my explanation is satisfactory to the judge, you will give me the verdict. This ends the trial, and the patient is released.

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