Can you hypnotize someone at distance?

While there have been anecdotal claims and demonstrations of distant or remote hypnosis, the existence of such a phenomenon lacks robust scientific evidence. Hypnosis generally relies on a person's willingness to participate and engage in the process for it to be effective. The ability to hypnotize an individual is typically achieved through direct verbal communication and interpersonal cues that establish a hypnotic relationship.

The vast majority of scientific studies on hypnosis involve in-person interactions between the hypnotist and the subject. These studies show that hypnotizability varies among individuals and that effective hypnosis usually requires the subject's cooperation and a conducive environment.

Claims of distant or remote hypnosis often fall into the realm of stage performances or anecdotal reports that are difficult to verify and control for factors such as suggestion, expectancy, and self-deception.

Skeptics argue that without the appropriate circumstances, rapport-building, and face-to-face cues, the likelihood of successful hypnosis at a distance becomes incredibly challenging to demonstrate definitively and consistently.

Therefore, while some individuals may genuinely believe in their ability to hypnotize over a distance, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the widespread application and effectiveness of remote hypnosis beyond a possible placebo effect.