Scientists and Quacks: The Case of Mesmer

As part of the lecture series “Le Collège à la Bibliothèque ,” Professor Antoine Lilti, holder of the Chair in the History of the Enlightenment, 18^th to 21^st century , will present a lecture titled “Scholars and Charlatans: The Case of Mesmer” on December 1^st, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Introduction

During his stay in Paris from 1778 to 1785, the Austrian physician Franz-Anton Mesmer presented his theory of animal magnetism and performed spectacular cures that were met with great success. Very quickly, doctors, scholars, and the public were divided: Was Mesmer a great scientist or a charlatan? Two commissions composed of members of the Academy of Sciences and physicians rejected his theories, but they remained popular and gained widespread support among the general public. Even today, historians continue to debate Mesmer’s legacy. This lecture will provide an opportunity to reflect on the changing nature of scientific evidence and authority during the Enlightenment, as well as on the public debates sparked by medical controversies at that time.

The lecture series is presented in partnership with Pour la Science magazine .