Pharmakon - Drugs and the Imagination

by Julian Vayne

Ranging across both published and anecdotal evidence, Pharmakon traces the story of drug use as a means of self-exploration. By examining apparently simple questions such as 'what is a drug?', Pharmakon deconstructs and reconstructs the idea of drug experience. Experiences that the author believes are fundamental to the process of self-actualisation and learning. Julian Vayne has written on a number of esoteric subjects (witchcraft, the tarot and the sociology of contemporary Paganism). This book is aimed at both the general reader and those who are interested in the use of drugs in a spiritual context. Delving into areas as diverse as philosophy and neurochemistry, this is a book that in both style and content seeks to invent a new understanding of drugs in culture. From Mandrake Speaks #100 'A well researched and informative look at a variety of popular and not-so-well-known drugs. He deals with how they interact with our minds and bodies both chemically and psychologically, and how we perceive substances on a personal and society-wide scale. The similarities discussed between some drug experiences and some mental illnesses may lead to different viewpoints on both. Liberally sprinkled with folklore and anecdotes, Pharmakon examines the use of drugs in self-exploration, employing a knowledgeable, yet down-to-earth approach that's interesting and readable.'

Paperback

First published September 1, 2006

Reviews

[Simon Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down the best book on drugs Ive read so far. Explores the imaginal aspect of the drug experience and how socially created ideas of different substances shape our individual experiences. Theres enough science and "reasonable Western language" to appeal to the rationalist in you and enough magic to maybe open up some new doors of experience/perception.

The discussion of the "schizophrenic" and "austic" poles of consciousness was very good and the point that such states may be protective reactions under certain circumstances sheds light on the seemingly contradictory aspects of nuerochemistry related to these states, suggesting that often these states need to be worked thru rather than snuffed out.

Lots of food for thought in this book, clearly by an enthusiastic drug taker but without the missionary zeal of some names I could mention.