“Plausible” and “possible” are related terms but have distinct meanings:
“Possible” refers to something that can happen or exist within the realm of feasibility or theoretical capability.
It indicates that an event or outcome has the potential to occur, even if it’s not guaranteed or likely.
For something to be possible, there should be no inherent contradiction or logical impossibility involved.
Example: It is possible for it to rain tomorrow, but it’s not guaranteed.
. “Plausible” refers to something that is believable or reasonable based on available evidence, knowledge, or circumstances.
It implies that an idea, explanation, or argument is likely to be true or valid because it aligns with what is known or makes sense in a given context.
Plausibility is often associated with a higher degree of credibility or likelihood compared to mere possibility.
Example: The explanation for the missing keys seems plausible because they were last seen on the kitchen counter.
Plausible. It’s a word that dances on the edge of reason and belief, often evoking images of smooth-talking salesmen or convincing arguments. But what does it truly mean to be plausible? At its core, plausibility is about appearing worthy of belief; it's that comforting feeling when an idea resonates with our understanding of reality.
Interestingly, the roots of 'plausible' stretch back to Latin—specifically from 'plausibilis,' which means 'worthy of applause.' This connection hints at something deeper: being plausible isn’t just about sounding good; it’s also about earning recognition for coherence and fairness in thought.
Hypnosis isn't about whether something is real or not, but whether it feels possible.
• "Your hand is going to magically stick" → this sounds ridiculous to someone.
• "Your muscles are tensing and locking up" → that sounds physiologically plausible.
The difference isn't in the phenomenon. It's in the framework.
So let's talk about frameworks.
A certain Swiss gentleman obsessed with symbols once suggested that the unconscious responds to symbols that are credible to the psyche. If you're curious about who that was — yes, our friend Jung.
The framework itself matters less than whether the subject experiences it as coherent with their worldview.
Jung and Erickson knew this well.
If someone believes in neuroscience → "we are activating other brain systems" works. If someone is in a narrative game → "the power of Anubis" can work.
From this perspective, the framework is a symbolic vehicle. Plausibility is an emotional bridge. It's not a guarantee of reality.
And when someone starts talking about the "art" of plausibility, one might ask:
Is it the art of facilitating understanding? Or the art of making something sound convincing?
A response to a question raised elsewhere
This is where the "art of plausibility" splits into two very different paths. The technique may look identical from the outside. The difference lies in direction — inward, toward the subject’s own experience, or outward, toward the operator’s agenda.
• The Art of Facilitating Understanding (The Path of the Healer/Teacher):
◦ Intent: To help someone access their own inner resources, gain clarity, or heal.
◦ Process: The framework is a temporary scaffold. It's offered with a spirit of "Let's try this on and see if it fits" or "Does this way of looking at things help?" The goal is to empower the individual to find their own truth.
◦ Plausibility's Role: It's the bridge to self-discovery. A plausible framework reduces resistance, allowing the person to lower their critical guard and explore new possibilities within themselves. The hypnotic suggestion "your muscles are tensing and locking up" works because it's a plausible explanation for an experience they are now having. It facilitates the experience of their own physiological processes.
• The Art of Making Something Sound Convincing (The Path of the Salesman/Demagogue):
◦ Intent: To persuade someone to accept your conclusion, buy your product, or adopt your belief.
◦ Process: The framework is a trap. It's designed to sound so good, so coherent, that the person doesn't notice the leap in logic or the lack of evidence. Plausibility is used to bypass critical thinking.
◦ Plausibility's Role: It's the gilding on the pill. A smooth-talking salesman makes an improbable investment opportunity sound plausible. A demagogue makes a conspiracy theory sound plausible by weaving it into a framework of "us vs. them" and "hidden truths." The experience isn't one of self-discovery, but of being led.
✦ Context: Includes Julius
