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The Psychedelic Journey of Marlene Dobkin de Rios

216 pages, 2009

spirituality & religion

spirituality & religion

408 books
biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
psychology

psychology

705 books
science & nature

science & nature

1064 books
Takeaways
Description

Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic mixture rich in alkaloids that have been used by shamans in South America for millennia as a spirit drug for divinatory and healing purposes. 

Although the late Harvard ethnobotanist Richard Evans Schultes was credited with being the first to document the use of ayahuasca in the early 1950s, other researchers, including the eminent anthropologist Marlene Dobkin de Rios, were responsible for expanding on his findings and uncovering the curative properties of this amazing compound.

De Rios's Psychedelic Journey is a collection of de Rios's 45 years of pioneering fieldwork in which she conducted more than 16 years of interviews about ayahuasca usage among members of various indigenous tribes in Peru and Brazil. She studied these peoples' usage of ayahuasca to treat resistant psychological disorders.

Exploring the World of Psychedelics

Marlene Dobkin de Rios takes us on a fascinating journey through her research and experiences with psychedelics. She provides a unique perspective on the use of these substances in different cultures and their potential for healing and personal growth.

Understanding the Cultural Context

The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural context of psychedelic use. Marlene Dobkin de Rios shows us that these substances are not just recreational drugs, but are deeply embedded in the traditions and rituals of many societies.

Psychedelics and Healing

One of the key takeaways from the book is the potential of psychedelics for healing. The author shares her experiences and research on how these substances can be used in therapeutic settings to treat various mental health conditions.

The Role of the Shaman

Marlene Dobkin de Rios gives us a glimpse into the role of the shaman in indigenous cultures. She explores how these spiritual leaders use psychedelics to facilitate healing and spiritual experiences.

The Controversy Surrounding Psychedelics

The book also addresses the controversy surrounding the use of psychedelics. While acknowledging the potential risks, Marlene Dobkin de Rios argues for a more nuanced understanding of these substances, highlighting their potential benefits when used responsibly and in the right context.

Recommendations

1
Hamilton Morris

Hamilton Morris

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498 books

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