28/03/2024
It is generally believed that you can't consciously fake goosebumps — scientifically known as piloerection, a physiological response controlled by the autonomic nervous system, typically triggered by emotions like fear, cold temperatures, or certain types of music.
The above claim was repeated in a movie I watched last year in which, a character was hypnotised in order to get them to recount an incidence in which they had allegedly murdered someone. When challenged by a witness of the hypnosis who asked if the subject may be faking it, the doctor replied by saying that no one could fake the goosebumps the subject had while in that state.
At the time, I dismissed it on the grounds that it was only a movie, until recently when I read a similar claim in an article, which has left me with questions because; for as long as I can remember, I have always been able to summon goosebumps on my body effortlessly whenever I want, and as many times as I want. My brother used to be able to do it too. I don't know if he still can.
The science however admits that; some people "might" be able to induce goosebumps, but it will require sheer willpower or intense focus — both of which I personally do not require in order to summon goosebumps.
So, does that call into question the reliability of the science or the endless possibilities of what science does not know?