Psychedelic Book Club (Austin) Part 2

The theme of our second meeting in this three-part series is "Meditations on Psychedelic Utopia," and we'll be discussing Aldous Huxley's ISLAND as well as two short articles.

Have you glimpsed visionary revelations of humanity’s enlightened future during a psychedelic experience? Do you wish to (re)-create the utopia of Pala here on Earth, or perhaps just wondered if these remarkable “truth and beauty” drugs might help us save the world somehow? No matter what you believe, come prepared to have your thinking challenged by the most impressive devil’s advocacy & philosophical discussion this side of the Mississippi River.

In this three-part series, we’ll be digging deep into questions related to psychedelic utopia by examining three readings that have shaken the hearts and minds of those who are moving and living inside these questions. There will be beverages and light snacks provided, but the focus of this gathering is on intellectual conversation about this central question: It’s tempting to believe psychedelics generate enlightenment, both at the individual and collective level, but is that true? In what ways is the story more complex, or more simple?

Prior to our meeting, we ask that you read Island by Huxley and two articles, The False Promise of Psychedelic Utopia, and at least the abstract from Right-Wing Psychedelia. Attendance at our first meeting on 4/28 if not necessary to attend this event!

READINGS

— Island, by Aldous Huxley (1962) a novel about a psychedelic utopia in the fictional island nation Pala

— The False Promise of Psychedelic Utopia, by esteemed psychedelic journalist Shayla Love, senior staff writer at Vice News

— Right-Wing Psychedelia: Case Studies in Cultural Plasticity and Political Pluripotency by researchers Dr. Brian Pace and Dr. Nese Devenot

This is a three-part series, and we plan to continue to this discussion on June 30th for those who are interested.

Because of our location size, we must limit the attendance, so if you're interested in coming, we encourage that you register sooner rather than later. We hope to find a location that will fit larger groups in the weeks/months to come. There will be a nominal charge (pay what you can!). Your contribution helps us host rad events like this and helps pay for location fees and more. Thank you in advance!

Location and details available upon registration.

Looking forward to seeing you!

PsyT Disclaimer: Version April 2022

PsyT does not hold ceremonies or promote illegal activities during our events. This is not a place to seek, encourage, or participate in the procurement of controlled substances. You agree that you will not contact us for such things and will not engage in any such activities in your participation in any PsyT event. We provide a platform to discuss experiences that offer transformation in our personal and professional lives. You acknowledge that any information we provide is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

**Please do not use our space to promote or source substance and retreats**