The ancient psychedelics myth: ‘People tell tourists the stories they think are interesting for them’

Manvir Singh's "Shamanism, The Timeless Religion" delves into the widespread and enduring phenomenon of shamanism across various cultures and historical periods. The book likely explores the core practices, beliefs, and social roles associated with shamanism, examining how shamans act as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. It may also investigate the altered states of consciousness, healing rituals, and cosmological frameworks that characterize shamanistic traditions. By taking a cross-cultural approach, Singh likely identifies common themes and variations in shamanic practices, shedding light on the universal aspects of human spirituality and the diverse ways in which people seek to connect with the supernatural. The book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of shamanism as a persistent and influential aspect of human culture, offering insights into its relevance in both traditional and contemporary contexts.

In this book, Michael Pollan delves into the history of psychedelic drugs, from their rise in the 1960s to their current resurgence in medical research. He combines historical and scientific analysis with personal narratives of his own experiences with psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin. The book explores how these substances are being used to treat conditions like depression, addiction, and anxiety, and discusses their potential to revolutionize our understanding of the human mind and consciousness. Pollan's work is a blend of science, memoir, and travel writing, offering a nuanced and engaging look at the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of psychedelics.

In 'Food of the Gods,' Terence McKenna delves into the ancient relationship between humans and psychoactive substances. The book explores how these substances have influenced human history, from prehistoric partnership societies to modern dominator cultures. McKenna discusses the roles of various substances such as spices, spirits, tobacco, tea, coffee, opium, and alcohol, and proposes a 'stoned ape' theory suggesting that psychedelics played a crucial role in human cognitive development. He argues for an 'archaic revival,' advocating for a return to a more shamanic understanding, community, reverence for nature, and increased self-awareness to address the problems of modern society.

In this timely and definitive study, Andy Letcher chronicles the history of the magic mushroom—from its use by the Aztecs of Central America and the tribes of Siberia through to the present day—stripping away the myths and taking a critical and humorous look at the drug's more recent manifestations. The book explores the cultural, historical, and therapeutic aspects of magic mushrooms, particularly psilocybin, and their use across various cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. It also discusses the resurgence of interest in psychedelics for therapeutic use, especially in treating mental health issues, and argues for a new worldview that combines scientific understanding with spiritual insights from psychedelic experiences.