Breaking Open the Head:A Psychedelic Journey into the Heart of Contemporary Shamanism
 

Breaking Open the Head: A Psychedelic Journey into the Heart of Contemporary Shamanism
by Daniel Pinchbeck

It's clear the author is influenced by Terence Mckenna, which I happen to like. In fact he attended one of TM's Palenque conferences. But his thoughts are original - he is very well read, and adventurous - having tried ibogaine in africa, and ayahausca in numerous places. Some great, descriptive chapters on 'Burning Man'. The book has some interesting, refreshing perspectives, some insights I have not yet considered. He tries to relate the psychedelic shamanic experience to this current day madness. For sure I will read his next book '2012: The Return of Quetzalcoatl'

copyright 2002

lava

Re: Breaking Open the Head by Daniel Pinchbeck
 

As SWIM is listening to a Daniel Pinchbeck radio interview, s/he remembered this thread and decided to purchase the book. Online retailers offer sources for the book "used & new" at around ~$30, but eBay has new copies for < $15 including shipping.

Re: Breaking Open the Head by Daniel Pinchbeck
 

Well, I finished this book a month or two ago, so I'll give you my thoughts.

It's an entertaining read, but definitely not a "classic." Pinchbeck mostly summarizes the history of the psychedelic culture and throws in a few trip reports and his experience at Burning Man. His analysis of the history of the culture seems rather provincial, and anyone interested in learning the history is better off reading Leary, McKenna, etc., unless they don't have the time and simply want a quick, brief overview of it all.