CITE:Â Grof S. Psychology of the Future: Lessons from Modern Consciousness Research. State University of New York Press; 2000.
SUMMARY
In this book, Stanislav Grof presents a new model of the human psyche, based on his extensive research on non-ordinary states of consciousness. He argues that our current understanding of the psyche is limited and that there are important dimensions of human experience that have been ignored or repressed. Grof proposes a new paradigm of psychology that recognizes the spiritual, transpersonal, and mystical aspects of human nature. He draws on his experience as a psychiatrist and his research with LSD and other psychedelics to explore the role of non-ordinary states of consciousness in healing and personal growth. Grof also examines the implications of his work for our understanding of death and dying, the nature of reality, and the future of human evolution.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The book presents a comprehensive model of the human psyche that includes the biographical, perinatal, and transpersonal levels of experience.
- Grof argues that non-ordinary states of consciousness, such as those induced by psychedelics, can provide valuable insights into the nature of the psyche and facilitate healing and personal growth.
- The book explores the potential of psychedelic therapy in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Grof examines the spiritual and mystical dimensions of human experience and argues that they are an important aspect of our nature that has been repressed by modern society.
- The book also explores the implications of Grof’s work for our understanding of death and dying, the nature of reality, and the future of human evolution.
SELECTED QUOTES
- “It is becoming increasingly clear that the psyche is not a closed system but rather an open one, extending far beyond the boundaries of the individual organism and encompassing the whole of humanity and even the entire cosmos” (p. 4).
- “The new paradigm of psychology requires a radical shift in our understanding of human nature, from a model that sees us as isolated individuals to one that recognizes our interconnection and interdependence” (p. 22).
- “The process of spiritual emergence is not simply a matter of adopting new beliefs or ideas, but rather a profound transformation of the self at the deepest level of being” (p. 133).
- “The crisis of our time is not only ecological, social, or political, but also a crisis of consciousness that requires a radical transformation of our understanding of ourselves and our relationship to the world” (p. 226).