High Priest (book)

High Priest is a seminal book authored by Timothy Leary, a psychologist and writer known for his advocacy of psychedelic drugs. Published in 1968, the book chronicles Leary's experiences with psychedelic drugs during the early 1960s while he was a lecturer at Harvard University. High Priest is considered a classic in the literature of psychedelic exploration and has played a significant role in shaping the cultural and scientific discourse around psychedelics.

Overview

High Priest details 16 psychedelic sessions, or "trips," that Leary underwent between 1960 and 1962. Each chapter is devoted to a different session and includes Leary's introspective account of his experiences, thoughts, and revelations while under the influence of substances such as LSD, psilocybin, and DMT. The book not only explores the subjective effects of these substances but also discusses the potential they hold for psychological and spiritual growth.

Leary's narrative is interspersed with philosophical reflections, drawing on a wide range of cultural, religious, and philosophical sources to interpret his experiences. He posits that psychedelic drugs can act as sacraments, facilitating profound mystical experiences and insights that can lead to personal transformation.

Impact and Legacy

High Priest has had a significant impact on the counterculture movement of the 1960s and the ongoing discourse surrounding psychedelic substances. Leary's vivid descriptions and philosophical musings helped to demystify psychedelics, presenting them as tools for exploring the human mind and consciousness. The book contributed to a growing interest in psychedelic research and therapy, influencing both the scientific community and popular culture.

Despite its influence, High Priest and Leary's work, in general, have been subjects of controversy. Critics argue that Leary's promotion of drug use encouraged irresponsible experimentation without sufficient regard for the risks involved. Nonetheless, High Priest remains an important document of a pivotal moment in the history of psychedelic exploration.

See Also

• Psychedelic therapy
• Counterculture of the 1960s
• History of lysergic acid diethylamide
• Psychedelic literature