Mick Brown, "The Nirvana Express: How the Search for Enlightenment Went West" (Oxford UP, 2023)

Mar 21, 2025

Mick Brown, an in-depth researcher and author, discusses his new book on how Eastern spirituality has shaped Western thought over the past century. He shares fascinating stories of figures like Edwin Arnold and Aleister Crowley, illustrating the allure and challenges of enlightenment. The conversation delves into the journeys and disillusionments faced by Western seekers, contrasting authentic spiritual practices with exploitation. Brown also explores the shifting dynamics of spiritual leadership in the modern era, highlighting the complexities surrounding contemporary gurus.