Abstract
This paper attempts a theoretical rapprochement between Milton Erickson’s (1901-1980) and Charles Peirce’s (1839-1914) thought, focusing on the concepts of singularity and fallibilism to point out their similarities, the role they play on their works, how they relate to each other, and their theoretical implications regarding hypnosis. First, the text briefly describes both authors’ historical background and its influence over their early conceptions. Then, it discusses how fallibilism, present in the concept of semiosis, considers the singularity of existing phenomena and enables synechism, as well as the processes of constant evolution through change of habits. This study develops Erickson’s observation about the subject as a representative sign of life experiences and relates, initially, the theoretical implications of mind-as-semiosis concerning the constitutive process of phenomena accessible in trance experience.
Keywords:
hypnosis; Milton Erickson; trance; semiotics; Charles Peirce