LESSON ELEVEN CONCENTRATION Flashcards
1
Q
What is the definition of concentration as used in this lesson?
A
Concentration is the act of focusing the mind upon a given desire until ways and means for its realization have been worked out and successfully put into operation.
2
Q
What are the two important laws involved in concentrating the mind on a given desire?
A
- Law of Auto-suggestion
- Law of Habit
3
Q
How does habit form according to the lesson?
A
Habit grows out of environment, repetition, and thinking the same thoughts over and over.
4
Q
What analogy is used to describe habit in the lesson?
A
Habit may be likened to the grooves on a phonograph record, with the mind as the needle point that follows the groove.
5
Q
What is the role of environment in habit formation?
A
Environment supplies the food and materials out of which we create thought, and habit crystallizes these into permanency.
6
Q
What is the relationship between habit and memory training?
A
Habit is the basis of all memory training, demonstrated by repeating a name until it is fixed in memory.
7
Q
True or False: The human mind only draws material from its internal thoughts.
A
False
8
Q
What is the first rule for forming new habits?
A
Put force and enthusiasm into your expression and feel what you think.
9
Q
Fill in the blank: A habit is a _______ over which our actions have traveled for some time.
A
mental path
10
Q
What should you do to resist old habits according to the lesson?
A
Resist the temptation to travel over the older, easier paths and focus on the new paths.
11
Q
What is the importance of daily associates in your environment?
A
Daily associates can work for your progress or retrogression, depending on their support for your aims and ideals.
12
Q
What is the significance of the first step in achieving any desire?
A
Create a clear, well-defined picture of what you intend to accomplish.
13
Q
What does the term ‘environment’ cover?
A
- Books we read
- People we associate with
- Community we live in
- Nature of our work
- Country or nation
- Clothes we wear
- Songs we sing
- Religious and intellectual training before age fourteen
14
Q
How can you change your environment if it is not to your liking?
A
Create a clear and well-rounded picture of the desired environment in your mind and concentrate on it until it becomes a reality.
15
Q
What analogy is given to describe how habits are formed and maintained?
A
Just like a piece of paper that folds along the same lines after being folded once.
16
Q
What does the lesson suggest about the influence of clothes on self-confidence?
A
Soiled or shabby clothes can depress you, while clean, appropriately styled clothes can boost self-confidence.
17
Q
What is the ‘Magic Key to Success’ referred to in the lesson?
A
It is the principle used by followers of New Thought to achieve success.
18
Q
True or False: The lesson asserts that habits can be easily broken without forming new ones.
A
False
19
Q
What should you focus on to make new habits easier to follow?
A
Travel over your newly made paths as often as possible.
20
Q
What happens every time you resist the temptation to revert to old habits?
A
You become stronger, making it easier to resist in the future.
21
Q
What does the ‘Magic Key to Success’ represent?
A
The principles of concentration
It is a method used by followers of New Thought and other optimistic philosophies.
22
Q
What is the main ability defined by concentration?
A
The ability to keep your mind on one subject until mastered
It involves controlling attention and focusing on a problem until solved.
23
Q
What are the chief factors that contribute to successful concentration?
A
- Ambition
- Desire
Without these factors, the Magic Key is considered useless.
24
Q
True or False: The Magic Key can unlock doors to education and physical health.
A
True
It is described as a pass-key to various life achievements.
25
What must you do to use the Magic Key effectively?
Believe in its effectiveness and follow a specific formula
## Footnote
This includes visualizing your goals and concentrating on them regularly.
26
Fill in the blank: Concentration means the ability to _______.
control your thoughts and direct them to a definite end.
27
What is the relationship between desire and the process of creation?
Desire must be transformed into reality through concentration
## Footnote
Everything created was first imagined and then realized through concentrated effort.
28
What is the significance of a 'definite chief aim'?
It is the first step in attaining enduring success
## Footnote
Concentrating on a specific goal is essential for effective use of the Magic Key.
29
What can the presence of others do to your mental state?
It can inspire or depress you
## Footnote
Different people have varying effects on your energy and motivation.
30
When two or more people ally in harmony for a common goal, what is the result?
They gain superhuman and seemingly irresistible power
## Footnote
This principle highlights the strength of organized effort.
31
What is the analogy used to explain the combining of minds?
The creation of water from hydrogen and oxygen
## Footnote
Just as H2O is different from its components, combined minds can produce unique outcomes.
32
What does the author suggest about the influence of a supportive partner?
They can inspire ambition and drive for success
## Footnote
The text provides an example of a family where one member's education transformed the whole lineage.
33
According to the text, what is thought considered to be?
The highest form of energy known
## Footnote
Thought is seen as organized energy, similar to electricity.
34
What should one do if previous efforts have not been successful?
Start all over again and aim for future success
## Footnote
Focus on the next five or ten years to create a story of success.
35
True or False: The Magic Key is complicated and requires deep mystical understanding.
False
## Footnote
It is described as a simple and easily understood concept.
36
Who is often behind the greatness of well-known individuals according to the text?
The influence of a supportive partner or spouse, often a woman
## Footnote
Examples include Henry Ford and Thomas A. Edison, whose wives played significant roles in their achievements.
37
What does defeat warn us about?
Something has gone wrong and we should look for the cause
## Footnote
This underscores the importance of learning from failures.
38
What is one of Thomas A. Edison's most outstanding qualities?
Concentration
## Footnote
Concentration is highlighted as a key factor in Edison's success.
39
What analogy is used to explain the blending of minds for achieving goals?
An apple seed growing into a tree
## Footnote
The seed represents the initial desire, while the combined efforts are likened to soil and air necessary for growth.
40
What happens when two or more people ally themselves with a common purpose?
Great achievement follows the systematic blending of their minds
## Footnote
This principle emphasizes the power of collaborative effort.
41
What does Dr. Elmer Gates do to gather information during his investigations?
He concentrates his mind on the subject until related thoughts begin to flow in
## Footnote
This method has led to many of his important discoveries.
42
According to the text, what is thought likened to in terms of energy?
The most highly organized form of energy known
## Footnote
This suggests that thoughts emit waves that can affect other minds.
43
What is the 'master mind' concept as discussed in the text?
An alliance of multiple minds working together towards a single purpose
## Footnote
This concept was exemplified by Andrew Carnegie's collaborations.
44
True or False: Concentration is not an important feature of Henry Ford's success.
False
## Footnote
Concentrated effort is highlighted as a key factor in Ford's career.
45
What are the three principles that contribute to memory?
* Retention
* Recall
* Recognition
## Footnote
These principles are essential for effective memory training.
46
Fill in the blank: The process of _____ involves reviving recorded sense impressions into conscious awareness.
Recall
## Footnote
Recall is essential for accessing stored memories.
47
How can one ensure effective retention of a sense impression?
Make the impression vivid by concentrating on it and repeating it
## Footnote
Just like a photographer needs proper exposure time, the mind needs focus for effective memory.
48
What technique can help associate new information with something familiar?
Link the new information with an easily recalled object or name
## Footnote
This helps in filing away memories for easier access later.
49
What did Cyrus H. K. Curtis focus on to make the Saturday Evening Post successful?
Concentration of effort behind a definite purpose
## Footnote
His dedication to the magazine's success is a case study in concentration.
50
What did Mr. Ford insist on regarding the rear axle construction of his automobile?
There would be no more changes as the existing axle performed well
## Footnote
This decision reflects his commitment to concentrated effort.
51
What is the first step to recall a person's name after being introduced?
Repeat the name four or five times, ensuring you understood it correctly.
52
How can you associate a name with a familiar object to aid memory?
Link the name to a familiar object, like imagining it hanging over a letter-box.
53
What is the law of association in memory training?
It involves recording a name you wish to remember with a name you can readily recall.
54
How did the author remember a friend's telephone number?
By associating it with Lake Michigan and the ages of his brother and father.
55
What was the acquaintance suffering from, and how did he describe it?
He was suffering from a 'wandering mind' and absent-mindedness.
56
What did the acquaintance do to regain his concentration?
He outlined a work schedule and practiced concentration of thought.
57
What is concentration defined as in the text?
Control of attention.
58
True or False: Concentration can be improved through practice.
True.
59
What is the significance of 'crystal-gazing' mentioned in the text?
It demonstrates the power of concentrated attention.
60
What is the hypothesis about tuning into the 'universal mind'?
It suggests that one can access all knowledge through concentrated attention.
61
What should you do to memorize your definite chief aim?
Repeat it daily and visualize yourself achieving it.
62
Fill in the blank: The human family is entering the _______ Age.
Mind Power Age.
63
What is a 'Master Mind' according to the text?
Group concentration of mind power on a definite object or end.
64
What does the text suggest about success and negotiation?
Success largely depends on tactful and harmonious negotiation with others.
65
What is the fundamental flaw of using force to influence others?
Force does not build enduring success.
66
According to the text, what is necessary for the human mind to reach its potential?
Stimulus to push it beyond its average stopping point.
67
What can awaken a person to discover their strengths?
An event that pushes them beyond their daily routine.
68
Fill in the blank: The majority of people do not exercise their right to control their own _______.
mind.
69
What is the outcome for someone who learns to stimulate their mind artificially?
They are likely to achieve fame and fortune if their efforts are constructive.
70
What has the world war demonstrated regarding the use of force?
It showed the futility of force as a means of influencing the human mind.
71
What is the key to stimulating the mind for constructive purposes?
Finding a way to arouse the mind beyond its average stopping point through mental stimulants such as intense interest, desire, enthusiasm, and love.
## Footnote
This approach differs from physical stimulants or narcotics, which can ultimately ruin the mind.
72
How can the right kind of mental seed impact an individual's life?
Sowing the right mental seed can lead to positive transformations, while haphazard sowing leads to unsatisfactory results.
## Footnote
The mind is likened to a fertile field producing results based on the type of seed sown.
73
What historical examples illustrate the transformation of individuals through mental change?
Cases of individuals transforming from law-abiding citizens to criminals and vice versa, demonstrating that the transformation occurs in the mind.
## Footnote
The focus is on the mental picture one creates and pursues.
74
What is the relationship between anger, fear, and constructive action?
Anger and fear are destructive to the mind and inhibit maximum constructive action.
## Footnote
Control over these emotions is necessary for achieving satisfactory results.
75
What is the significance of the 'crowd mind' in social psychology?
The crowd mind blends individual minds into a composite that is highly suggestible and influenced by the leader's emotional appeal.
## Footnote
This phenomenon shows how crowd dynamics can alter individual behavior.
76
Fill in the blank: The greater part of phenomena observed in religious revivals is classified as __________ rather than spiritual.
psychical.
## Footnote
This classification suggests that revival phenomena may share characteristics with hypnotic suggestion.
77
Who is Alvin Cullom York, and what is he known for?
He is known as the foremost hero of the American Expeditionary Forces in France during World War I, transforming from a gunman to a war hero.
## Footnote
His story illustrates the power of mental transformation and purpose.
78
What was the initial reaction of Alvin York to conscription?
He was sullen and disagreed with killing, believing in the literal interpretation of 'Thou shalt not kill.'
## Footnote
This belief positioned him as a conscientious objector.
79
True or False: The emotional excitement in revival meetings is always beneficial for individuals.
False.
## Footnote
Many psychologists argue that it can weaken the mind and degrade the spirit.
80
What does the term 'composite-mindedness' refer to in crowd psychology?
It refers to the phenomenon where individuals in a crowd lose personal traits and act as a single entity with shared emotional traits.
## Footnote
This state often leads to impulsive and emotional behavior.
81
What is a significant outcome of mental suggestion in the context of war?
It can effectively influence individuals' decisions and actions, as seen in how York was persuaded to join the war effort.
## Footnote
This highlights the impact of understanding human psychology on societal issues.
82
What are the twelve good reasons for failure mentioned?
The first is the intention to do no more than one is paid to do.
## Footnote
This reflects a mindset that limits personal growth and achievement.
83
What does the phrase 'psychic intoxication' refer to in the context of revival meetings?
It refers to the intense emotional state experienced during revival meetings, akin to the effects of substance abuse.
## Footnote
This comparison underscores the potential dangers of emotional excess in such gatherings.
84
What transformation did Alvin York undergo due to mental influence?
He shifted from a gunman to a dedicated soldier fighting for a holy cause.
## Footnote
This transformation was facilitated by persuasive communication regarding the righteousness of the war.
85
Fill in the blank: The crowd's response to emotional appeals often leads to __________.
imitation.
## Footnote
This behavior is a trait commonly observed in primitive human interaction.
86
What process occurs in the mind of an audience while listening to a powerful speaker?
Fusion
## Footnote
This process involves individuals losing their personal traits and being reduced to a single individual with characteristics of an impulsive youth.
87
According to Joseph Jastrow, what plays a leading role in the state of mind of an audience?
The power of mental contagion
## Footnote
Mental contagion can lead to the spread of both error and truth within crowds.
88
What does Professor Le Bon describe as a characteristic of a psychological crowd?
A collective mind is formed
## Footnote
This mind causes individuals to feel, think, and act differently than they would in isolation.
89
True or False: In a crowd, the intellectual aptitudes of individuals are strengthened.
False
## Footnote
The intellectual aptitudes are weakened in the collective mind.
90
What phenomenon occurs to an individual immersed in a crowd in action?
They enter a state resembling hypnosis
## Footnote
This state involves a loss of conscious personality, will, and discernment.
91
What is the effect of being part of a crowd on individual behavior according to Le Bon?
An individual descends in the ladder of civilization
## Footnote
In a crowd, individuals may act by instinct rather than reason.
92
According to Davenport, how does the crowd's mind compare to that of primitive man?
Stimulation immediately begets action
## Footnote
Reason is often in abeyance in a crowd.
93
Fill in the blank: The crowd thinks in _______.
images
## Footnote
Speech must take the form of images to be accessible to the crowd.
94
What greatly increases the emotion of an audience during revivals?
The employment of symbolic images
## Footnote
Examples include symbols like the cross, the crown, and heaven.
95
How does the emotional response in a crowd compare to the sum of individual emotions?
It is far greater
## Footnote
The crowd's attention is directed to common ideas, amplifying individual emotions.
96
What is a key method used by revivalists to influence their audience?
Emotional persuasive suggestion
## Footnote
This includes stories, songs, and personal appeals that stir emotions.
97
True or False: The element of fear is no longer used in revivals.
False
## Footnote
While less pronounced, fear is still invoked subtly in revivals.
98
What happens to individuals who show signs of being influenced in a revival?
They are 'labored with' by the revivalist or co-workers
## Footnote
This includes urging them to surrender their will and give themselves to God.
99
What does Starbuck's experience during a revival illustrate?
The will seemed wholly at the mercy of others
## Footnote
It highlights the emotional and non-intellectual nature of the experience.
100
What has been emphasized regarding the hypnotic method in revivals?
It has been refined and is still used
## Footnote
This method is considered primitive and not necessarily spiritually beneficial.
101
What is the danger of employing suggestion on highly suggestible individuals, such as children?
It is mentally and morally injurious
## Footnote
Such practices can lead to psychological malpractice.
102
Fill in the blank: The revivalist's emotional appeal often involves reawakening _______.
sacred sentimental memories
## Footnote
This can lead to increased susceptibility to strong suggestions.
103
What is the effect of violent emotional throes and suggestion on hardened sinners?
They can be made serviceable, but often result in psychological malpractice.
104
What should be guarded against in spiritual obstetrics?
Quackery and inadequate training.
105
Who poses a greater threat to competition in a job, according to the text?
The person who performs more than is expected.
106
What do some supporters of revival methods argue about mental suggestion?
It can be used for good purposes as well as bad.
107
What is a key criticism of identifying emotional states induced by revival methods with true religious experience?
It confuses counterfeit experiences with genuine spiritual uplift.
108
What does Rev. Dr. George A. Gordon criticize about professional revivalism?
It is inadequate due to emotional appeals and suppression of critical comment.
109
What is a common result of emotional excitement during revivals?
Temporary effects that can lead to indifference or aversion to true religious feeling.
110
What is the phenomenon of 'backsliding' associated with?
A reaction often equal to the original emotional action during revivals.
111
How does emotional excitement during revivals affect suggestibility?
It increases susceptibility to 'isms', fads, and false religions.
112
What demographic is particularly vulnerable to emotional intoxication from revivals?
Young people and women.
113
What critical period of life is noted for developing emotional and spiritual nature?
Adolescence.
114
What does Davenport suggest about the relationship between sexual and spiritual excitation?
They are closely associated during puberty.
115
What does the text imply about misguided religious zeal?
It can strengthen tendencies toward morbidity and hysteria.
116
What will characterize the future of revival meetings according to Professor Davenport?
Less coercion and more recognition of individual will.
117
What should be the focus of religious experience in the future?
Intelligent, undemonstrative, and self-sacrificing piety.
118
What is the Law of Concentration?
A major principle for effectively fusing the minds of a crowd.
119
What does the text suggest about failure?
It is fortunate as it teaches what NOT to do.
