A review by madtraveler
How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan

hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

Absolutely fascinating, and I daresay, mind-changing. I'd always been a bit curious about psychedelics as they were unfairly lumped together with various hard drugs. Pollan does an excellent job of laying out the history of research, the many apparent benefits not only to afflicted people but to healthy adults, and an analysis of just how the brain works, the ego, consciousness, life philosophy, mystical experiences, and so much more. Then as any good journalist/scientist would do, he goes out an experiences each of the psychedelic medicines under the supervision of therapist guides. The summary is definitely in support of the use of these chemicals, but not in a frivolous recreational manner. I saw a lot of my own worries and bad-thinking habits in here, as well as those of friends, and it made me wonder what an experience such as his might do for me. A fascinating look at a sort of spiritual approach to their use as well as a proven treatment for those suffering from depression and addiction and finding no relief in big pharma solutions. I highly recommend this book.