You asked us a question. "Do subliminal messages really work?"
 
We are pretty sure the answer is no. But just in case, we may throw in a subliminal surprise or two. Just to see if you are paying attention.
 
Just kidding?
 
Subliminal messaging is the idea that someone can flash an image or sound just for an instant. It sneaks past your conscious mind into your subconscious. And it is said to affect your behavior.
 
The thought is a scary one.  No one wants to be someone else's pawn. Am I right?
 
But here is the real question. Does it work?
 
I am not overstating when I say that a lot of people have spent a lot of time looking into subliminal messaging. They try to see how effective it is. The long and short of it is there is not a heck of a lot of realistic proof to show that it can impact our behavior.
 
So, go watch TV. And listen to music. Then make decisions of your own free will. Afterwards, come back and watch more stories like this every day at Smithsonian.com