Religion and Psychoactive Sacraments:
An Entheogen Chrestomathy
Thomas B. Roberts, Ph.D. and Paula Jo Hruby, Ed.D.
Author Index | Title Index
Beyond The Brain:
Birth, Death, and Transcendence in Psychotherapy.
Grof, Stanislav. (1985).
Albany, NY: State University of New York Press.
- ISBN: 0-87395-953-1 hardcover
- 0-87395-899-3 paperback
Description: First edition,
xviii + 466 pages.
Contents: Acknowledgments,
introduction, 8 chapters, chapter notes, bibliography, index.
Excerpt(s): The only
genuine solution [to world problems] must acknowledge the collective
nature of the problem and offer satisfactory perspectives to everybody
involved. The deeply felt unity with the rest of the world tends
to open the way to a genuine appreciation of diversity and a tolerance
of differences. Sexual, racial, cultural, and other prejudices
appear absurd and childish in light of the vastly expanded world
view and understanding of reality that includes the transcendental
dimension.
Having researched the potential of unusual states
of consciousness for more than a quarter of a century, I have
no doubts that the transformation I have here described can be
achieved on an individual scale. I myself have witnessed over
the years many dramatic examples of such an evolution while assisting
other people in psychedelic therapy and experiential self-exploration
without the use of drugs, particularly holotropic therapy. ...
Whatever questions one may have about the feasibility
of this strategy as a world-changing force, it could well be our
only real chance under present circumstances. The currently available
means and channels for solving the global crisis do not leave
a critical observer with much hope. In practical terms the new
approach means to complement whatever one is doing in the external
world with a systematic process of in-depth self-exploration.
In this way the pragmatic technical knowledge of each of us can
be complemented and guided by the wisdom of the collective unconscious.
Inner transformation can be achieved only through
individual determination, focused effort, and personal responsibility.
Any plans to change the situation in the world are of problematic
value, unless they include a systematic effort to change the human
condition that has created the crisis. To the extent which evolutionary
change in consciousness is a vital prerequisite for the future
of the world, the outcome of this process depends on the initiative
of each of us. (page 432)
Compilation copyright © 1995 – 2001 CSP
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