Author and journalist Erik Davis talks with host Michael Taft about the power of partaking in the forbidden, psychedelics becoming normalized, Tantric and Christian modes of transgression, power relationships and the guru, hedonism, rule-breaking, desire for safe spiritual practice environments, the role of risk in spiritual development, the medium of blotter paper and its connection to LSD, the concept of transgression in Hindu society, adapting meditation traditions to the modern West, complexities of contemporary spirituality, symbolic organizing of chaos and anomalies, the power of taboos in society, and exploring tantric spirituality.

Join scholar Erik Davis as he discusses California's ideological supremacy, history of LSD, and forthcoming book. Explore acid trips, blotter art, Grateful Dead's link to LSD culture, rise of ketamine clinics, and emergence of Santa Muerta cult.

Erik Davis, a writer and scholar known for his insights on technology, culture, and the occult, joins the discussion to unravel the intricate tapestry of John Crowley's 'Little, Big.' They dive into its enchanting blend of reality and fantasy, exploring personal connections and emotional resonances that resonate deep within the reader. The talk illuminates the novel's themes of destiny, magic, and the interplay between memory and imagination, while also highlighting how narrative shapes our perceptions and experiences of the world.

Erik Davis, an author and podcaster, discusses author Robert Anton Wilson, anarchism in the 1970s, psychedelics, and Zen practice. They explore the impact of Wilson's book, High Weirdness, and the concept of metasystemic thinking. The podcast also delves into the absorption of psychedelics into capitalist society, the parallelism between meditation and corporate influence, and ways to support the Deconstructing Yourself podcast.

Join Erik Davis, author of 'Blotter,' as he delves into the psychedelic underground world of LSD on blotter paper. Explore the cosmic realities and visionary experiences induced by psychedelics, and the evolution of LSD distribution through creative methods. Learn about the influence of medium and setting on psychedelic journeys, as well as personal psychedelic experiences in Southern California during the counterculture era.

Fandango's Erik Davis previews 2024 summer blockbusters, from Marvel's 'Deadpool and Wolverine' to indie gems like 'Trap'. Jamey Johnson shares personal story behind his hit song '21 Guns' tribute. A powerful blend of storytelling and music celebrates fallen heroes on PBS. Summer movie forecast unveils a mix of comedies, horror, and thrillers that promise to captivate audiences.

Join Erik Davis, a noted writer and scholar known for his insights on technology and psychedelics, as he reflects on his journey and new book, *Blotter*. He explores how California's unique cultural landscape shapes spiritual experiences and discusses the intriguing interplay of technology and spirituality. Davis shares thoughts on the psychedelic renaissance, touching on its risks and rewards, while critiquing the commodification of such experiences. He also highlights the role of literature in shaping consciousness and the importance of community in post-pandemic practices.

Erik Davis, scholar of the weird and esoteric, discusses Philip K. Dick’s legacy, Silicon Valley's technopolypse, and the future of California, exploring disruptions in AI advancements and the 'move fast and break things' ethos in business.

In this engaging discussion, Erik Davis, an expert on West Coast counter-culture and author of the cult classic 'TechGnosis,' explores how technology intertwines with spirituality and psychedelics. He shares vivid tales from his transformative backpacking journey, emphasizing nature's spiritual rewards. Davis tackles the complexities of modern consciousness, the commercialization of psychedelics, and the need for a balanced approach to technology and personal growth. His insights encourage reflection on how we connect with our spiritual selves in today's fast-paced world.

PhD Erik Davis and artist Michael Garfield explore hyper-reality, techno-shamanism, evolution of psychedelics, cuteness in society, perpetual dissatisfaction, and high weirdness. The conversation dives into the intersection of technology, spirituality, and societal adaptation to technology.