This Is Your Mind On Plants
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This Is Your Mind On Plants
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This Is Your Mind On Plants
In This Is Your Mind on Plants, Michael Pollan invites readers on a compelling journey through the fascinating and enigmatic world of psychoactive plants. Venturing beyond mere science and history, Pollan presents an intimate and provocative exploration of three intriguing substances: opium, caffeine, and mescaline. This odyssey delves deeply into their cultural, historical and personal implications, offering a fresh perspective on the human desire to alter consciousness.
The book begins with Pollan's encounters with opium. He immerses himself in the plant's storied past, from ancient civilisations that revered its pain-relieving properties to modern societies grappling with its addictive potential. Pollan's narrative seamlessly weaves historical anecdotes with his own experiences, providing a rich tapestry of the complex relationship between humanity and this powerful plant.
Next, Pollan examines caffeine, the world's most widely consumed psychoactive substance. He explores its impact on society and individual lives, recounting his own attempt to abstain from this ubiquitous stimulant. Through engaging storytelling, Pollan highlights the profound effects of caffeine on productivity, culture, and the way we perceive time and efficiency.
The final substance, mescaline, transports readers into the realm of spiritual and mystical experiences. Pollan investigates the use of this potent psychedelic in indigenous rituals and its profound, often transformative effects on the mind. His personal journey with mescaline adds a deeply introspective layer, offering readers a window into the potential for personal growth and enlightenment.
By blending history, science, memoir, and reportage, Pollan sheds new light on a subject frequently discussed in overly simplistic terms. Rather than merely debating the regulation of these substances, This Is Your Mind on Plants delves into how their use connects us with the natural world and reflects our fundamental human needs and aspirations. Pollan argues that when we consume these plants, allowing them to change our minds, we engage in one of the most profound interactions with nature.
With his characteristic clarity and insight, Pollan reveals the complexities of our psychological and cultural landscapes. This Is Your Mind on Plants is a ground-breaking and singular work that challenges readers to rethink their perceptions of psychoactive plants and their role in human life. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of culture, consciousness, and the natural world.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
This Is Your Mind on Plants by Michael Pollan is praised for its engaging and thought-provoking exploration of mind-altering substances. Reviewers commend Pollan's entertaining writing style, deep thinking, and masterful storytelling. The book offers a fascinating insight into our relationship with such plants, blending personal experimentation with cultural and historical context, often leading readers to reconsider their views on drugs and plants.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780141997339
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 07 July 2022
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 16.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 213g
Pages: 288
About the Author
Michael Pollan is an award-winning author, activist and journalist. His international bestselling books about the way we live today - including How to Change Your Mind, In Defence of Food and Food Rules -- combine meticulous reporting with anthropology, philosophy, culture, health and natural history. Time magazine has named him one of the hundred most influential people in the world. He lives in the Bay Area of California with his wife.
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