In 'Food of the Gods,' Terence McKenna takes readers on a riveting exploration of humanity's relationship with psychoactive plants and their role in culture, spirituality, and consciousness. He argues that these natural substances can be catalysts for profound revelations and creative breakthroughs, challenging the boundaries of perception. McKenna weaves together history, science, and his personal experiences to paint a vivid picture of a world where superfoods may unlock hidden potential within us. As he delves into the impact of industrialization and the loss of traditional practices, he raises urgent questions about the future of human well-being. This provocative read invites readers to reconsider the nature of reality and the power of nature in influencing mind and culture.
By Terence McKenna
Published: 1993
"The challenge is to find a way to navigate the complex relationship between the natural world and our quest for meaning, to embrace the entheogenic experience as a catalyst for transformation."
An exploration of humans' symbiotic relationships with plants and chemicals presents information on prehistoric partnership societies, the roles of spices and spirits in the rise of dominator societies; and the politics of tobacco, tea, coffee, opium, and alcohol. Why, as a species, are humans so fascinated by altered states of consciousness? Can altered states reveal something to us about our origins and our place in nature? In Food of the Gods, ethnobotanist Terence McKenna’s research on man’s ancient relationship with chemicals opens a doorway to the divine, and perhaps a solution for saving our troubled world. McKenna provides a revisionist look at the historical role of drugs in the East and the West, from ancient spice, sugar, and rum trades to marijuana, cocaine, synthetics, and even television—illustrating the human desire for the “food of the gods” and the powerful potential to replace abuse of illegal drugs with a shamanic understanding, insistence on community, reverence for nature, and increased self-awareness. Praise for Food of the Gods “Deserves to be the modern classic on mind-altering drugs and hallucinogens.”—The Washington Post “Terence McKenna is the most important—and most entertaining—visionary scholar in America.”—Tom Robbins “The culture’s foremost spokesperson for the psychedelic experience . . . Those who know and enjoy Joseph Campbell’s work will almost certainly appreciate McKenna.”—L.A. Weekly “An eloquent proposal for recovering something vital—a sense of the sacred, the transcendent, the Absolute—before it’s too late.”—Larry Dossey, M.D., author of Meaning & Medicine, Recovering the Soul, and Space, Time & Machine
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“The challenge is to find a way to navigate the complex relationship between the natural world and our quest for meaning, to embrace the entheogenic experience as a catalyst for transformation.”
Food of the Gods
By Terence McKenna
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Terence McKenna (1946-2000) was an influential American ethnobotanist, mystic, and advocate for the responsible use of naturally occurring psychedelic substances. Known for his charismatic speaking style and unconventional ideas, McKenna's works tackle the intersections of culture, consciousness, and technological progress. He authored several notable books, including 'Food of the Gods,' 'The Archaic Revival,' and 'True Hallucinations,' where he explored themes related to psychedelics, spirituality, and environmental issues. His writing often blends science, philosophy, and personal narrative, making complex ideas accessible and engaging to a broad audience. McKenna's unique perspectives have left a lasting impact on the fields of psychedelics and consciousness studies.
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