PRIVATE LESSONS IN THE CULTIVATION OF MAGNETISM OF THE SEXES
Book Details + Condition: Ralston University Press (Meriden, CT). Second reprint edition, 1925 (first being in 1924). Hardcover. Measures 9.75" x 7". 444 pages. In very good condition, with firm binding; interior is clean and free of markings, save a bit of discoloration and former owner's pencilled info to front endpapers. An unusual volume that teaches "the development and wonderful enlargement of those powers and influences that nature has invented to aid every human life". Contents include: Uses of Sex Magnetism; Basic Laws; Six Senses; The Attractive Force; Sex Influence; and Getting Together. Written by the founder of the health and utopian movement Ralstonism, Edmund Shaftesbury [pseudonym of Webster Edgerly]. Ralstonism was a social cult movement in the 19th century, and the brainchild of Edgerly (1852–1926). Ralstonism began as the Ralston Health Club, which published Edgerly's writings. He offered pseudo-scientific advice on everything from sex and marriage, to walking. Edgerly became well known – even counting Queen Victoria among his readers. Unfortunately, he was also a proponent of eugenics, attempting to “improve” the human race with selective breeding, free from “impurities”. His racist beliefs advocated the castration of all "anti-racial" (non-Caucasian) males at birth. Edgerly wrote 82 of what would today be called self-help books, covering subjects such as diet, exercise, sexual magnetism, deep breathing, andfacial expressions. Edgerly also created his own language, called the "Adam-Man-Tongue" with a 33-letter alphabet. The Magnetism Club of America, another Ralstonite organization, was founded to give its members control over the minds of others. Edgerly also helped found the Ralston Purina Pet Food Company, which today includes the products Chex and Cookie Crisp.
