Synopses & Reviews
Explores scientific and medical research on the emerging uses of psychedelics to enrich mind, morals, spirituality, and creativity andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andbull; Outlines a future that embraces psychedelics as tools for cognitive development, personal growth, business, and an experience-based religious reformation andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andbull; Presents research on the use of psychedelics to enhance problem-solving, increase motivation, boost the immune system, and deepen ethical values andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andbull; Includes chapters by Roger N. Walsh, M.D., Ph.D., and Charles Grob, M.D., on their psychedelic research on religious experience and alleviating the fear of death andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;As psychedelic psychotherapy gains recognition through research at universities and medical establishments such as the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute and Bellevue Hospital, the other beneficial uses of psychedelics are beginning to be recognized and researched as well--from enhancing problem-solving and increasing motivation to boosting the immune system and deepening moral and ethical values. andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Exploring the bright future of psychedelics, Thomas B. Roberts, Ph.D., reveals how new uses for entheogens will enrich individuals as well as society as a whole. With contributions from Charles Grob, M.D., and Roger N. Walsh, M.D., Ph.D., the book explains how psychedelics can raise individual and business attitudes away from self-centeredness, improve daily life with strengthened feelings of meaningfulness and spirituality, and help us understand and redesign the human mind, leading to the possibility of a neurosingularity--a time when future brains surpass our current ones. Roberts envisions a future where you will seek psychedelic therapy not only for psychological reasons but also for personal growth, creative problem solving, improved brain function, and heightened spiritual awareness. andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Our psychedelic future is on the horizon--a future that harnesses the full potential of mind and spirit--and Thomas Roberts outlines a path to reach it.
Review
andldquo;Roberts provides us with a map of a healthy future and directions on how to get there. This important, practical volume should be on the must-read list of all citizens, including students, businesspeople, artists, legislators, regulators, and policy makers. We would all do well to follow Professor Robertsandrsquo;s guidance into our psychedelic future.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;With the psychedelic renaissance now in full flower, this book provides timely insight into the many reasons that we should work to mainstream nonordinary states of consciousness for a range of beneficial uses and the practical ways we can do so.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;With intelligence, keen insight, deep knowledge, and a wonderful ability to imagine a future illuminated by the powerful interaction between entheogens and the seeking human mind, Thomas Roberts pulls off a visionary book about the most fascinating subject imaginable.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Tom Roberts is one of the few elder statesmen of the psychedelic world concerned with the inevitable social and medical repercussions arising from the continued worldwide use and growing medical and governmental acceptance of entheogens. I find his speculations and their implications wise and innovative.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Robertsandrsquo;s work in the area of entheogens--manandrsquo;s use of psychedelic substances in the context of religious rite or spiritual growth--has sought to replace popular uninformed hysteria with actual facts and, through critical examination, illuminate the ways in which our brains process and interpret our perceptions. He has earned his place among the best inner explorers of our time.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Robertsandrsquo;s book is a tour de force in the nascent field of psychedelic studies. andlt;Iandgt;The Psychedelic Future of the Mindandlt;/Iandgt; proposes bold new research directions and methodologies that intrepidly advance what psychedelic research can become. A guide for researchers and the general public alike, this book promotes paths to integrate the power of psychedelic insights into both careers and daily life.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Tom Roberts may be an extraordinary academic thinker, but he presents the ideas in this book poetically and directly in ways that will allow everyone from artists and intellectuals to shamanic seekers and born-agains to understand the value of psychedelics as we map out the geography of the global future of consciousness.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;andlt;Iandgt;The Psychedelic Future of the Mindandlt;/Iandgt; is the best exploration that Iandrsquo;ve ever seen on how mystical experiences can transform human lives, catalyze the evolution of spiritual intelligence, and help people to discover the hidden potentials of the mind. This valuable contribution to our understanding of the psychedelically-inspired mystical experience--and its consequences on physical, mental, and spiritual health--discusses the psychology of religion, and how we learn in non-ordinary states of consciousness, from a transcendental vantage point. Thomas Robertsandrsquo; magnificent new book also explores how the future evolution of consciousness will interface with advanced technology, and is simply a treasure trove of fascinating ideas, bursting with eye-opening insights on every page.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;In short, Robertsandrsquo; book offers a well-informed introduction to the broad spectrum use of psychedelics, a prospectus for community growth centers, and a vision of intelligence and creativity higher than what we now enjoy, plus news from one of the best thinkers and a pair of the most imaginative researchers in the field.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Tom Robertandrsquo;s new book is a tour de force in the nascent field of psychedelic studies. More than a seminal overview of psychedelic research to date, andlt;Iandgt;The Psychedelic Future of the Mind andlt;/Iandgt;proposes bold new research directions and methodologies that intrepidly advance what psychedelic research can become...Robertsandrsquo; book will be a signpost of inspiration to current and future researchers in developing this field.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;One of the most important and powerful aspects of this book is that Roberts effectively bridges the gap between science and humanistic thought. He takes an ecumenical and very open-minded approach to the value of altered states. This book should be in every psycho-nautandrsquo;s library.andrdquo;
Review
“Roberts provides us with a map of a healthy future and directions on how to get there. This important, practical volume should be on the must-read list of all citizens, including students, businesspeople, artists, legislators, regulators, and policy makers. We would all do well to follow Professor Roberts’s guidance into our psychedelic future.” < b=""> Neal M. Goldsmith, Ph.D. <> , author of < i=""> Psychedelic Healing <>
Review
“With the psychedelic renaissance now in full flower, this book provides timely insight into the many reasons that we should work to mainstream nonordinary states of consciousness for a range of beneficial uses and the practical ways we can do so.” < b=""> Rick Doblin <> , president and founder of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)
Review
“With intelligence, keen insight, deep knowledge, and a wonderful ability to imagine a future illuminated by the powerful interaction between entheogens and the seeking human mind, Thomas Roberts pulls off a visionary book about the most fascinating subject imaginable.” < b=""> Tom Shroder <> , author of < i=""> Old Souls <> and < i=""> Fire on the Horizon <>
Review
“Tom Roberts is one of the few elder statesmen of the psychedelic world concerned with the inevitable social and medical repercussions arising from the continued worldwide use and growing medical and governmental acceptance of entheogens. I find his speculations and their implications wise and innovative.” < b=""> James Fadiman, Ph.D. <> , author of < i=""> The Psychedelic Explorers Guide <>
Review
“Roberts’s work in the area of entheogens--man’s use of psychedelic substances in the context of religious rite or spiritual growth--has sought to replace popular uninformed hysteria with actual facts and, through critical examination, illuminate the ways in which our brains process and interpret our perceptions. He has earned his place among the best inner explorers of our time.” < b=""> Will Dresser <> , author of < i=""> Sacrament of Fear <> and < i=""> The Methuselah Man <>
Review
“Roberts’s book is a tour de force in the nascent field of psychedelic studies. The Psychedelic Future of the Mind proposes bold new research directions and methodologies that intrepidly advance what psychedelic research can become. A guide for researchers and the general public alike, this book promotes paths to integrate the power of psychedelic insights into both careers and daily life.” < b=""> Nese Devenot <> , founder of the Psychedemia conference and contributing editor for Reality Sandwich
Review
“Tom Roberts may be an extraordinary academic thinker, but he presents the ideas in this book poetically and directly in ways that will allow everyone from artists and intellectuals to shamanic seekers and born-agains to understand the value of psychedelics as we map out the geography of the global future of consciousness.” < b=""> David Biddle <> , < i=""> Reality Sandwiches, <> March 2013
Review
“The Psychedelic Future of the Mind is the best exploration that I’ve ever seen on how mystical experiences can transform human lives, catalyze the evolution of spiritual intelligence, and help people to discover the hidden potentials of the mind. This valuable contribution to our understanding of the psychedelically-inspired mystical experience--and its consequences on physical, mental, and spiritual health--discusses the psychology of religion, and how we learn in non-ordinary states of consciousness, from a transcendental vantage point. Thomas Roberts’ magnificent new book also explores how the future evolution of consciousness will interface with advanced technology, and is simply a treasure trove of fascinating ideas, bursting with eye-opening insights on every page.” < b=""> David Jay Brown <> , author of < i=""> The New Science of Psychedelics <>
Review
“In short, Roberts’ book offers a well-informed introduction to the broad spectrum use of psychedelics, a prospectus for community growth centers, and a vision of intelligence and creativity higher than what we now enjoy, plus news from one of the best thinkers and a pair of the most imaginative researchers in the field.” < i=""> Alternet <> , April 2013
Review
“Tom Robert’s new book is a tour de force in the nascent field of psychedelic studies. More than a seminal overview of psychedelic research to date, The Psychedelic Future of the Mind proposes bold new research directions and methodologies that intrepidly advance what psychedelic research can become...Roberts’ book will be a signpost of inspiration to current and future researchers in developing this field.” < i=""> Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, <> April 2013
Review
andldquo;Our psychedelic future is on the horizonandmdash;a future that harnesses the fuller potentials of mind and spirit: raising intelligence, new intellectual frontiers, new ways to interpret history and philosophy, even designing new thinking processes...! This book will sprout fresh ideas in your mind.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;In conclusion, andlt;Iandgt;The Psychedelic Future of the Mindandlt;/Iandgt; does what any great work of pharmacography should do i.e. make one think. It doesnandrsquo;t simply prescribe an approach, posit a definitive vision or throttle any particular meaning around the psychedelic experience. It puts one to thinking about the potential for psychedelic substances, for the individual and for society. As such, it is very successful and, moreover, challenging in many of the ideas it puts out there. Very much worth a read!andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Roberts seeks to enlighten all who will listen about the many potential benefits of using entheogens for a variety of purposes, and to replace common misconceptions with facts. This book goes beyond science and mental health. Itandrsquo;s interesting and enlightening for any explorer of human potential. andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Roberts present his concepts and ideas clearly and coherently, yet does so with unmistakable passion and an underlying sense of humour. The main goal of this work is to stimulate a new way of looking at psychedelics; viewing them as potential allies in our evolutionary journey. While he remains optimistic for the future, he stops short of suggesting that psychedelics are a panacea or that social change will occur overnight. He emphasizes that obstacles to public education and academic research still exits and there will continue to be resistance in the public and political spheres. Nevertheless, Robertsandrsquo; conclusions and recommendations, especially with regards to education, are worthy of a wider audience. Considering Roberts has taught a course on psychedelics for over three decades, he has a commendable grasp of the logistics and significance of psychedelic education. We would be wise to take note of his suggestions so that we may develop new research questions and models; creative methodologies; engaging university courses; and future generations of psychedelic researchers.andrdquo;
Review
andldquo;Those who can come across the word entheogens (psychoactive drugs used with a spiritual purpose) without needing a dictionary will have an easier time with the prose, but they might be the proverbial choir listening to the preaching. These folks can expect an informative, thoughtful, organized, and enjoyable spin through history, spirituality, religion, psychology, economics, and politics. They will find the classic allusions to many of psychologyandrsquo;s forefathers, including William James and Abraham Maslow, as Roberts details how the field has always flirted with mystical experiences and altered levels of awareness. Big names in the study of consciousness also get respectful tips of the hat. Roberts boils down complicated studies in an accessible way. Unlike comparable authors, he does not see hallucinogens as a panacea. An endearing section called Why You Shouldnandrsquo;t Put LSD in Your Friendandrsquo;s Coffee underscores the import of set and setting, emphasizes how the underground market undermines knowledge about any illicit drugandrsquo;s actual content and potency, and elaborates on individual differences in drug reactions. The hallucinogens are clearly not for everybody.andrdquo;
About the Author
Thomas B. Roberts, Ph.D., is professor emeritus at Northern Illinois University and a former visiting scientist at Johns Hopkins. The coeditor of Psychedelic Medicine and the author of Psychedelic Horizons, he has spoken at international conferences on entheogens, consciousness, and psychedelic science. He lives in DeKalb, Illinois.
Table of Contents
andlt;Bandgt; andlt;BRandgt;A Note to Readers andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Introduction: A Short Trail Guide to This Book andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Part 1 andlt;BRandgt;The Experience That Alters All Othersandlt;/Bandgt; andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;1andlt;/Bandgt; Our Psychedelic Future andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;2andlt;/Bandgt; Humanityandrsquo;s Taproot andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;3andlt;/Bandgt; Raising Values andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;4 andlt;/Bandgt;The New Religious Era andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;5andlt;/Bandgt; Psychedelics and Religious Experiences--What Is the Relationship? by Roger N. Walsh, M.D., Ph.D., D.H.L. andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;6andlt;/Bandgt; Do Psychedelic-induced Mystical Experiences Boost the Immune System? andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;7 andlt;/Bandgt;Psychedelic Psychotherapy Near the End of Life by Charles S. Grob, M.D., and Alicia L. Danforth andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;Part 2 andlt;BRandgt;High-Yield Ideas--Multistate Theory and the Fruitful Mindandlt;/Bandgt; andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;8andlt;/Bandgt; Multistate Theory--Apps Are to Devices as Mindbody States Are to Minds andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;9andlt;/Bandgt; Enhancing Cognition, Boosting Intelligence, Expanding Cognitive Studies andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;10andlt;/Bandgt; New Intellectual Endeavors andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;11andlt;/Bandgt; Itandrsquo;s a Perinatal World--Hitler and War, Sartre and Mescaline, andlt;Iandgt;Snow Whiteandlt;/Iandgt; and andlt;Iandgt;Fight Club andlt;/Iandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;12andlt;/Bandgt; The Neurosingularity Project--When Bigger Heads and Better Brains Surpass Our Current Ones andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;Part 3 andlt;BRandgt;From Lab to Life, From Clinic to Campusandlt;/Bandgt; andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;13andlt;/Bandgt; Reaching the Unreachable Public While Raising $1+ Billion for Psychedelic R andamp; D via Crowdfunding--A Biz-fi Speculation andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;14andlt;/Bandgt; It Means Something Different to be Well Educated andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;15andlt;/Bandgt; You Teach andlt;Iandgt;What? Where?andlt;/Iandgt; andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;andlt;Bandgt;Conclusion: Hopes andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Appendix: Community Psychedelic Centers International, Inc.--Notes for a Prospectus andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;References andlt;BRandgt; andlt;BRandgt;Index andlt;/Bandgt;