Timothy Leary, a psychologist and writer known for his groundbreaking work on psychedelics, reunites with Ram Dass in a lively Harvard gathering. They share insights on their evolving friendship and tackle crowd questions about consciousness, myths, and the future of psychedelics. Expect playful debates about Gandhi versus extraterrestrials and musings on collaborative writing. Leary unveils his Revelations per Minute meter, while both reflect on the transformative power of psychedelics. Their banter reveals deep philosophical ideas interspersed with humor.
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insights INSIGHT
Reconnection
Ram Dass and Timothy Leary reunited after a period of estrangement.
They found a shared space of emptiness and deeper connection despite their different paths.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Where Do We Go From Here?
An audience member asked about the direction moving forward after the setup provided by Leary and Ram Dass.
They discussed the thinness of the political superstructure and the potential for change.
insights INSIGHT
Unity Through Form
An audience member questioned Ram Dass's meditation and detachment during the dialogue.
Ram Dass explained that being a conscious being involves caring for others and shared responsibility, leading to unity beyond form.
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Flashbacks is Timothy Leary's autobiography, published in 1983, which recounts his diverse career and personal experiences. The book covers his time as a clinical psychologist at Harvard University, his involvement in psychedelic drug research, his fugitive years, and his interactions with various cultural and historical figures. It includes his reflections on the psychedelic revolution of the 1960s and his own philosophical and spiritual explorations. Despite some criticisms of embellishments and omissions, the book provides a complex and intriguing portrait of Leary's life and influence on modern culture[1][3][4].
Brain Damage Incorporated
Brain Damage Incorporated
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Timothy Leary
One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest
Ken kesey
Published in 1962, 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' is a seminal novel by Ken Kesey that delves into the dehumanizing effects of institutionalization and the struggle for individuality. The story, narrated by Chief Bromden, a half-Indian patient, takes place in an Oregon psychiatric hospital where the strict and oppressive regime of Nurse Mildred Ratched is challenged by the arrival of Randle P. McMurphy, a charismatic and rebellious patient. The novel explores the boundaries between sanity and madness, conformity and rebellion, and questions the power dynamics within institutions. It became a symbol of countercultural resistance and has had a significant impact on discussions surrounding mental health and societal treatment of the mentally ill.
Dying to Know
Dying to Know
The Epic Friendship That Shaped Generations
Timothy Leary
Dying to Know is a captivating exploration of the profound friendship between Timothy Leary and Ram Dass, two iconic figures who significantly impacted the counterculture movement and the exploration of consciousness. The book delves into their shared journey, from their groundbreaking work at Harvard to their later reconciliation, offering insights into their personal lives and their shared mission to expand human consciousness. It examines their collaborations, their individual paths, and their perspectives on death and spirituality. The book also highlights their influence on psychology, spirituality, and the cultural landscape. Through their story, Dying to Know inspires readers to question societal norms and embrace personal growth.
At this rowdy Q&A session from their 20-year reunion event at Harvard, Ram Dass and Timothy Leary answer questions and banter about the scenarios and myths surrounding our lives.
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This episode is part three of the Ram Dass and Timothy Leary reunion event at Harvard University on April 23, 1983. Be sure to check out part one, The Explorer’s Club, and part two, No Signposts. In this recording:
Ram Dass and Timothy begin with a little banter about their relationship and how it has evolved over the years.
Dealing with a slightly rowdy audience, they take questions about where we go from here, emptiness and form, the Brotherhood of Eternal Love, and Ken Kesey.
Ram Dass and Timothy both share their thoughts on collaboration and writing as a team, what the future might hold for the use of psychedelics, and whether or not psychedelics cause brain damage. They have a lively debate about Gandhi versus ET.
Ram Dass explores some of the myths and scenarios surrounding our lives. Timothy talks about his Revelations per Minute meter and some of the future possibilities he’s most excited about. They quibble over Ram Dass’ use of the word “God” and make some predictions about the remainder of the 1980s.
The event wraps up with some extended banter about voting, righteousness, and breaking bread with old enemies.
This talk was chosen in celebration of the new book, Dying To Know, which chronicles the epic friendship between Ram Dass and Timothy Leary that shaped generations of seekers. Get your copy today!
“My feeling is that we see through scenarios and myths so much that all we can do from here is be true to our self from moment to moment. Because every time we say, ‘Well, where we go from here is…’ We are already sending a whole structural thing forward.” – Ram Dass
Ram Dass Here And Now 
