Introduction to “This Man”
The “This Man” theory revolves around a mysterious figure that allegedly appears in the dreams of thousands of people worldwide. Described as an average-looking man with distinct facial features—thick eyebrows, a bald head, and a haunting stare—he is claimed to have been seen in dreams by people who have never met him in real life. The theory suggests that this figure, often referred to as “This Man,” could be part of a psychological, supernatural, or even conspiratorial phenomenon.
Origins and First Documented Instances
The “This Man” phenomenon first surfaced online in January 2006 when a patient of a well-known psychiatrist in New York City drew a sketch of a man who repeatedly appeared in her dreams. The psychiatrist allegedly circulated the sketch among colleagues and other patients, many of whom claimed to recognize the man from their own dreams. In October 2009, the phenomenon gained wider attention when a website, ThisMan.org, was created to compile reports of sightings and provide a platform for people to share their experiences.
The website was created by Italian marketer and sociologist Andrea Natella, known for his work on controversial and surreal projects. This led some to believe that the “This Man” phenomenon could be a hoax or an elaborate marketing stunt, while others considered it a genuine psychological or paranormal occurrence. Despite debates over its authenticity, the theory gained momentum, with reports of sightings coming from across the globe.
Theories Surrounding “This Man”
Various theories have emerged to explain the “This Man” phenomenon. Some of the most prevalent include:
- Psychological Archetype: Some believe “This Man” represents a universal archetype—a figure embedded in the collective unconscious, as theorized by Carl Jung. This archetype might appear in dreams due to shared cultural symbols or psychological patterns.
- Supernatural Entity: Others argue that “This Man” could be a supernatural being who visits people in their dreams. This theory suggests that he may have a spiritual or otherworldly purpose, possibly connected to dreamwalking or astral projection.
- Government Experiment: A more conspiratorial theory posits that “This Man” is a product of a government experiment in mind control or dream manipulation. Proponents of this theory believe that the government may be using advanced technology to implant this figure into people’s dreams for unknown purposes.
- Hoax or Urban Legend: Skeptics argue that the “This Man” phenomenon is either a hoax or an urban legend, perpetuated by the internet and media. The theory suggests that the website and reports were fabricated to create an intriguing and viral story.
- Mass Hysteria: Another explanation is that the widespread reports of “This Man” sightings are a form of mass hysteria, where the power of suggestion and the internet have caused people to believe they have seen him in their dreams.
- Shared Dreaming: Some theorists suggest that “This Man” is evidence of a phenomenon known as shared dreaming, where multiple people experience the same dream or dream elements, possibly indicating a deeper, collective connection between individuals.
- Subconscious Projections: In this theory, “This Man” is a projection of a common subconscious fear or anxiety, manifesting similarly across different individuals’ dreams due to shared psychological triggers.
- Simulated Reality: A more fringe theory posits that “This Man” could be a glitch in a simulated reality, where an error in the system causes this figure to appear in multiple people’s dreams.
- Ancient Myth Reincarnated: Some draw parallels between “This Man” and figures from ancient mythology or folklore, suggesting that he could be a modern incarnation of an old, forgotten deity or spirit.
- Alien Influence: A small group of theorists believes that “This Man” could be an extraterrestrial being, using dreams as a means of communication or observation.
Public Perception and Cultural Impact
The “This Man” phenomenon has sparked significant interest and debate. While many dismiss it as an internet myth, others are intrigued by the possibility of a shared dream experience or the psychological implications of such widespread reports. Theories continue to evolve, with no definitive explanation for the “This Man” sightings.
Key References in Literature
- Andrea Natella – Dream Healer. Self-published, 2020.
- Carl Jung – The Archetypes and The Collective Unconscious. Princeton University Press, 1980.
- David Icke – The Biggest Secret: The Book That Will Change the World. Bridge of Love Publications, 1999.
- Joseph Campbell – The Hero with a Thousand Faces. New World Library, 2008.
- Stephen King – Nightmares & Dreamscapes. Signet, 1994.