In our growing science of hypnotism we find the promise of a possibility of replacing old inherent instincts by new suggestions, grafting upon or replacing the inherited fixed ideas. Very much indeed of what we call moral education is such an artificial modification and perversion of instinct ; pugnacity is trained into courageous self-sacrifice, and suppressed sexuality into religious emotion.
In H.G. Wells' "The Island of Dr. Moreau," the author explores the concept of hypnotism as a means to alter deep-seated instincts and replace them with new suggestions. This idea points to the potential of reshaping inherited beliefs and behaviors, showing that some aspects of moral education may be a deliberate manipulation of natural instincts.
For example, Wells argues that traits such as aggression can be transformed into bravery and that repressed sexual urges can be redirected into religious fervor. This perspective highlights the complexity of moral development and the possibility of changing foundational impulses through external influences like hypnotism.
