In 'Neuropsychedelia,' Nicolas Langlitz explores the intersection of neuroscience and psychedelic experience, delving into how altered states of consciousness can reshape our understanding of the mind. Through a captivating blend of history, science, and personal narratives, Langlitz challenges conventional wisdom about mental health and spirituality. The book invites readers to reconsider the potential of psychedelics as tools for self-discovery and healing. As Langlitz uncovers the rich landscape of neuropsychedelic research, he raises profound questions about identity and reality. This thought-provoking journey will leave you pondering the limits of human perception and the mysteries of the brain.
By Nicolas Langlitz
Published: 2013
"In the exploration of consciousness, the boundaries of the mind dissolve, revealing not only the depths of our psyche but the very fabric of reality itself."
Neuropsychedelia examines the revival of psychedelic science since the "Decade of the Brain." After the breakdown of this previously prospering area of psychopharmacology, and in the wake of clashes between counterculture and establishment in the late 1960s, a new generation of hallucinogen researchers used the hype around the neurosciences in the 1990s to bring psychedelics back into the mainstream of science and society. This book is based on anthropological fieldwork and philosophical reflections on life and work in two laboratories that have played key roles in this development: a human lab in Switzerland and an animal lab in California. It sheds light on the central transnational axis of the resurgence connecting American psychedelic culture with the home country of LSD. In the borderland of science and religion, Neuropsychedelia explores the tensions between the use of hallucinogens to model psychoses and to evoke spiritual experiences in laboratory settings. Its protagonists, including the anthropologist himself, struggle to find a place for the mystical under conditions of late-modern materialism.
Nicolas Langlitz is an acclaimed author and cultural anthropologist known for his insightful explorations of contemporary science and technology. He has authored notable works including "Care of the Species: Cultivating the Imagination of the Environment" and "Neuroscience and the Soul: Will Science Ever Replace Philosophy?" Langlitz's writing is characterized by a deep engagement with interdisciplinary themes, blending ethnographic research with philosophical inquiry, and is marked by clarity, rigor, and a compelling narrative style.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Psychology of Money," Morgan Housel unravels the complex relationship between our emotions and financial decisions. Through captivating anecdotes and profound insights, he reveals that wealth isn't just about numbers, but about behavior and mindset. The book challenges conventional wisdom, urging readers to understand the subtle psychological forces that influence our spending and saving habits. Housel's reflections highlight the power of patience, humility, and a long-term perspective in building true financial success. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about money and its role in your life!
'Super Pumped' by Mike Isaac delves into the meteoric rise and turbulent fall of Uber, exploring the audacious vision of its founder, Travis Kalanick. As the company shakes up the transportation industry, ethical dilemmas and personal struggles emerge, painting a vivid portrait of ambition and chaos. Readers will be captivated by the fierce battles within the company and the relentless drive for success. Intriguingly, this narrative reveals the dark side of tech innovation and startup culture, leaving you questioning the cost of disruption. Prepare to be enthralled by a story of power, greed, and the quest for dominance in a rapidly changing world.
In 'The Psychopath Test,' Jon Ronson embarks on a mind-bending journey to decipher the complexities of the human mind and the psychopath diagnosis. He interviews individuals on both sides of the mental health spectrum, from charming con artists to distinguished psychologists. As he delves deeper, Ronson uncovers shocking truths about the thin line between sanity and madness. The book challenges readers to question who really qualifies as a 'psychopath' and whether we might all possess a hint of that darkness. With wit and insight, Ronson unveils a compelling exploration of morality, power, and the society's obsession with labeling minds.
In 'The Power of Persuasion,' Robert Levine unravels the intricate mechanisms behind influence and manipulation in everyday life. Drawing on captivating psychology studies and compelling anecdotes, he reveals how our choices are often swayed without our awareness. Levine exposes the techniques used by advertisers, politicians, and even friends to guide our decisions, prompting readers to reflect on their own susceptibility. This eye-opening exploration challenges your understanding of free will and personal agency. Are you ready to discover the hidden forces that shape your thoughts and actions?
In 'The Art of Happiness', the Dalai Lama and psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler fuse Eastern spirituality with Western psychology to explore the essence of true happiness. They argue that happiness is not merely a fleeting emotion, but a state of being that can be cultivated through practices such as compassion, mindfulness, and self-reflection. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific insights, they invite readers to rethink their priorities and approach to life. Discover how shifting your perspective can unlock profound joy and fulfillment. Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey toward inner peace?
In 'Peak Performance,' Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness unveil the surprising science behind achieving excellence in any field. They combine research from psychology, physiology, and elite sports to offer readers actionable insights on how to cultivate resilience and focus. The authors assert that the key to greatness isn't just hard work, but also strategic rest and recovery. Readers will discover how to harness their potential by balancing stress and rest to sustain peak performance over time. This compelling guide promises to transform the way you think about success, urging you to rethink your approach to performance.
In 'Bad Pharma', Ben Goldacre exposes the murky world of the pharmaceutical industry, revealing how greed and manipulation undermine medical science. He tackles issues like biased clinical trials and the suppression of negative results, illustrating how these practices deceive both doctors and patients. Goldacre's compelling narrative challenges the integrity of the medicines we rely on, urging readers to question what they put into their bodies. With a combination of sharp wit and rigorous investigation, he calls for transparency and reform within the industry. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about health, medicine, and the forces that shape them.
'Cognitive Psychology' by Michael W. Eysenck and Mark T. Keane offers a riveting exploration into the inner workings of the human mind. Delve into the fascinating processes of perception, memory, and decision-making that shape our everyday experiences. With cutting-edge research and real-world applications, the authors unravel the complexities of cognitive functions in a way that captivates both novices and seasoned scholars alike. Discover how cognitive psychology influences everything from learning strategies to emotional responses. This book invites you to unlock the mysteries of thought and behavior, igniting a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.

Hamilton Morris is an American journalist, documentarian, and chemist renowned for his extensive work on psychoactive substances. He is best known for his series "Hamilton's Pharmacopeia," which explores the history, chemistry, and cultural impact of various psychoactive drugs. Morris has contributed significantly to the literature on ethnopharmacology, providing in-depth research and firsthand accounts that have enriched public understanding of these substances. His writings and documentaries have been featured in prominent publications such as Vice, Harper's Magazine, and National Geographic. An advocate for scientific rigor and cultural sensitivity, Hamilton Morris continues to influence both the scientific community and popular discourse on psychoactive substances.

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“In the exploration of consciousness, the boundaries of the mind dissolve, revealing not only the depths of our psyche but the very fabric of reality itself.”
Neuropsychedelia
By Nicolas Langlitz
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.