Stones: Meditations on Human Authenticity

by Mark Seely

“You will find it hard to put down this remarkably engaging and thought-provoking book, and will never look at cancer, civilization, and the human condition in the same way. Mark Seely’s writing grabs you from the first sentence and gently leads you, step by step, to a fuller but alarming understanding of who you are—maybe it is time to blow up the computer and move to the woods.” ~ Dr. Donald Johanson, The Beginnings of Humankind “With Stones, Mark Seely invites us to take a journey around the world, back through history and into his own body. The very real problem of civilization, as an opiate for the masses, far greater than anything mere television could conjure up, is writ large in this fascinating tale of survival, whatever the challenges.” ~ Keith Farnish, author of Time’s Up! An Uncivilized Solution to a Global Crisis and A Practical Guide for Radical Change “What do an ailing human body and our planet have in common? Plenty. Mark Seely deftly explores the connections in Stones, combining a psychologist’s insight into human behavior, a teacher’s skill for making complex information understandable, and a poet’s gift for beautiful syntax. Equal parts memoir, history, and cultural philosophy, Stones examines what it means to be human in today’s world, from planetary crisis to personal mortality. You may not agree with all of his conclusions, but Seely will definitely make you think.” ~ John Sheirer, author of Make Common Sense Common Again and Loop 365 Days on the Trail

251 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 15, 2017

About the author

Mark Seely is a writer, social critic, professional educator, and cognitive psychologist. His book, Stones: Meditations on Human Authenticity, from Big Table Publishing, won a National Indie Excellence Award. His essays have appeared in Fifth Estate Magazine, Free Inquiry, Sky Island Journal, and Snowy Egret. He has also published numerous pieces in From the Edge of the Prairie, an annual publication showcasing poets and authors in Northwest Indiana. He was formerly Associate Professor and Chair of Psychology at Saint Joseph's College, Indiana, where he taught statistics, a wide variety of psychology courses, and an interdisciplinary course on human biological and cultural evolution. His hobbies include hiking, tending a four-season organic garden, and playing the mandolin (from Bach to bluegrass). Originally from Spokane, he now resides in Lynnwood, Washington, and serves on the faculty of Edmonds Community College.

Reviews

[Rachel Seyfert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew! I read this book before bed for the most part, and it really made me think. I had Dr. Seely as a psychology professor, so reading his work a few years post graduation was a neat experience. I had many favorite chapters throughout- some concepts from undergrad were revisited, and I learned many new things. Give it a read.