Irving Kirsch: a life beyond expectations.

This paper provides an overview of the life of the eminent psychologist and hypnosis researcher and theoretician Irving Kirsch. It describes the strenuous lives and legacy of his immigrant parents, his lesser know activities as a satirical editor of a tape that was nominated for a Grammy, and as a violin player. The trajectory of his professional life evidences his courage to question conventional ideas and psychotherapeutic and pharmaceutical practices. He has also been consistently a supportive and warm friend and colleague to many in the hypnosis and other fields.