Psychedelic Revival: Toward a New Paradigm of Healing

by Sean P Lawlor

A no-nonsense journey through the history, practice, and pitfalls of psychedelic healing

Now that the barriers against psychedelic research are finally relenting, there’s a lot of curiosity―and confusion―about these powerful compounds. How can psychedelics be taken safely? What are the risks? Can they truly help heal the wide variety of conditions that has garnered such international attention? To cut through the hype and propaganda, Sean Lawlor presents a deep dive into the theory, science, and practice of psychedelic healing in his book, Psychedelic Revival.

Lawlor explores the Western history of psychedelic medicine and recreational use alongside the vaster history of diverse indigenous plant medicine traditions. Informed by solid research and experiences of individual explorers, he facilitates an accessible journey through the psychedelic landscape, covering treatment methods, realistic benefits, and the shadow sides left out of common narratives. Along the way, he shares exclusive interviews with luminaries such as Michael Pollan, Dr. Rick Doblin, Camille Barton, Sandor Iron Rope, Tim Ferriss, and many more.

There’s no question psychedelics have tremendous healing potential. Yet all strong medicines should be handled with care―and to make good choices, we need the best information about the prospects and pitfalls of these emerging therapeutic tools. Psychedelic Revival is an invaluable resource for navigating this exciting frontier in healing.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, Psychology

432 pages, Paperback

Published June 4, 2024

Reviews

[Weronika Lo]

A solid introduction into the themes surrounding psychedelics, from a sociopolitical perspective to spiritual significance. Well written with wit and humor.

[Valeria Soto]

I loved the book, as a Latin American who has lived among various indigenous communities. I thought the presentation and exploration of different perspectives were excellent, as was the way it opened up the debate on the future of psychedelics while also highlighting the harm and controversy caused by fake hippies who think they’re shamans, and what medicinal plants mean for our territory. I thought the author’s doubts, statements, and counterarguments were excellent for addressing not only the properties of various psychedelics but also the entire framework or system surrounding them.

[Manny Delgado]

I've read quite a few books on psychedelics as well as native american history, this and anything i could find on the indigenous cultures of peru and ecuador.

I say this to bring up how the majority of anything written on these subjects is written by white men when the subject matter is obviously non-white peope being that the use of psychedelic plants is so closely intertwined with indigenous cultures.

It is frequently very frustrating to read books like the controversial Black Elk simply because it is written by a white man who very clearly has a white interpretation that fails to see things from the pure indigenous perspective.

Michael Pollan's How to Change Your Mind is equally frustrating as he is completely dismissive of indigenous interpretations and filters them through his western lens, despite being aware he does so, he isn't very skilled, even extremely reluctant to view things from a lens other than his arrogant western perspective. Genuinely the most unpleasant book i've read on psychedelics for that reason.

The difference with this book which was very refreshing is that it is written by a thoroughly reflective writer who despite being a white man recognizes the limitations of his western perspective and is skilled at suspending it to the best of his ability all while being aware that his best efforts will still come short of the perspective of indigenous peoples.

One thing i learned during my use of ayahuasca that i will always find useful is that "the rational mind is only a tool, it is not the end all, be all" we as westerners have arrogantly believed. Only one lens of many and one that becomes useless during a trip should you be naive enough to analyze your experiences in that moment rationally, oftentimes resulting in your vision(s) decaying immediately.

Overall i really enjoyed this book and i really appreciated that it didn't annoy me with the usual western arrogance of white writers.

[Mel]

Definitely the most well-rounded, informational book on psychedelics and the intense culture surrounding their newfounded potential in both transforming mental health care and the Western world as a whole. I am very grateful that Lawlor does not shy away from the bad actors at play in this “Renaissance” and doesn’t fall prey to the rather dangerous panacea narrative I see spreading far and fast about these substances. I have always been fascinated by this topic and have finished this book feeling more grounded in my knowledge surrounding the both the history, current state, and critical questions surrounding the future of psychedelics. I also greatly respect Lawlor’s inclusion and uplifting of indigenous voices who deserve more say than any of us in this matter.

[Elizabeth Guthrie]

This book is a fascinating look at the psychological healing potential of psychedelics. What makes Sean's conversation super interesting is the focus on eight psychedelic substances and their similarities/differences.
Many people do not realize how different the experiences can be with each of these chemicals.
Any therapist who is interested in the future of psychedelic medicine will find this fascinating. Any patient who has considered psychedelic support will benefit from the empowering information found in this text.

[Jordan Douglass]

This book explored a lot of different psychedelics. The author gathered information from different experts and cultures. I was surprised part of a chapter talked about a location and culture i have knowledge of. This is an informative book that provides knowledge of how these drugs can be used for good and can treat diagnosis such as PTSD. For anyone wanting more information on psychedelics, I would recommend this book. #GoodreadsGiveaway

[Naresh]

What I really liked about the book is the author has covered psychedelics from multiple perspectives. Perfectly balancing science, traditions, mysticism surrounding substances and touching upon not just the good but also the bad and the ugly side of consuming psychedelics for therapeutic and recreational uses. An interesting read for anyone trying to know more about psychedelics.

[Ivana]

Incredible and well researched, the book takes us on a journey of psychedelic research and use before Nixon’s war on drugs, through today’s revival era. There is so much good information in this book, both for therapists and psychonauts.

[Nadia]

This book is exceptional! So well-rounded and informative in a good range of psychedelics, some that I barely see information on elsewhere. I was a little skeptical at first seeing this was the author’s first published book, but Sean has truly done an amazing job on this one. Very scientific and goes so in-depth, while also acknowledging Eastern perspectives. A perfect blend. Beautifully written with tasteful amounts of humour and anecdotes which in my experience helped break up the sometimes complex material. You can feel that the author is very passionate about what he does, and I look forward to his future work!