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High Weirdness

Drugs, Esoterica, and Visionary Experience in the Seventies
Pages
550
Published
2019
Language
English

Synopsis

Erik Davis explores the psychedelic spirituality that emerged from the 1970s American counterculture through the works and mystical experiences of Philip K. Dick, Terence McKenna, and Robert Anton Wilson. This book examines how these influential authors reflected and shaped the era's seismic cultural shifts. Davis presents a new theory of 'the weird' as a viable mode for engaging with reality, drawing from their published and unpublished writings.

About the author

E
Erik Davis

Erik Davis is a cultural critic and author. He is widely recognized for his book Led Zeppelin's Led Zeppelin IV, which examines the history and influence of the classic album. His writing often explores music, counterculture, and the esoteric.

Frequently asked questions

  • Does High Weirdness connect to Erik Davis's other works?

    This book builds on themes Erik Davis explored in earlier writings, particularly his interest in counterculture, esotericism, and the intersection of technology and spirituality. Readers familiar with his previous work will recognize his distinctive analytical style applied to new subjects.

  • What makes High Weirdness stand out from other books about psychedelic culture?

    Erik Davis introduces a unique theoretical framework of 'the weird' as a lens for understanding the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of the 1970s counterculture, moving beyond purely historical or biographical accounts. It offers a deep dive into the intellectual contributions of its subjects rather than just recounting their experiences.