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conner_knoll's review
3.5
Very good; I thought it'd be more pragmatic than it was, but who's fault is that lol
kevin_shepherd's review against another edition
3.0
“…Christianity and alcohol do not and cannot mix. Christianity and mescalin seem to be much more compatible.”
An interesting but very unscientific survey of one; Huxley’s mescaline (peyote) experiment, May 1953, had him contemplating the fabric of space/time whilst entranced by the folds of his trousers.
Okay, I’ll concede that narcotics and hallucinogens may have inspired a few great works of art and literature but I remain highly skeptical of the scientific value of any anecdotal accounting of drug-induced euphoria. There are good reasons why many outspoken proponents of “expanded perceptions” had tormented and/or shortened lives (Jim Morrison, Philip Dick, Jack Kerouac, etc.). 3 stars.
“Reality is just a crutch for people who can’t handle drugs.” ~Robin Williams
An interesting but very unscientific survey of one; Huxley’s mescaline (peyote) experiment, May 1953, had him contemplating the fabric of space/time whilst entranced by the folds of his trousers.
Okay, I’ll concede that narcotics and hallucinogens may have inspired a few great works of art and literature but I remain highly skeptical of the scientific value of any anecdotal accounting of drug-induced euphoria. There are good reasons why many outspoken proponents of “expanded perceptions” had tormented and/or shortened lives (Jim Morrison, Philip Dick, Jack Kerouac, etc.). 3 stars.
“Reality is just a crutch for people who can’t handle drugs.” ~Robin Williams
ewheels125's review against another edition
2.0
Eventually during a power outage, I'll sit down and actually read this. But this time, I listened to it during a workday to pass the time. I admire his enthusiasm, I'll say that.
cameronbradley's review against another edition
2.0
The Doors of Perception has been sitting on my to-read list since my late teens/early 20's. That was 10-15 years ago now and now that I've finally read this book I realize I've simply grown out of caring what Aldous Huxley's drug experience was like. Reading this book is more like listening to a drunk friend ramble about nonsense for hours than a deep dive into the incredible subjective experiences halluninogenics can offer you. If you've never tried acid, shrooms, peyote, etc, then sadly this book will get you no closer to understanding what it's like. I give Huxley props for the attempt though, hence the 2 stars rather than one.
konradp's review against another edition
5.0
Read this book if you’ve ever tried therapy and/or psychonaut therapy. This is a first hand account written by one of the more ornate and reflective writers of the 20th century.