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48 pages 1 hour read

This Is Your Mind on Plants

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Michael Pollan

This Is Your Mind on Plants

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2020s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In This Is Your Mind on Plants, Michael Pollan explores the complex relationships between humans and three psychoactive plants—opium, caffeine, and mescaline—through historical, cultural, and personal lenses. Pollan analyzes how society perceives and regulates these substances, delving into their roles in social practices, evolution, and the war on drugs, and reflecting on his own experiences with these plants. Topics include addiction and trauma within Native American communities.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

33,630 ratings

70%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Michael Pollan's This Is Your Mind on Plants is praised for its engaging exploration of psychoactive plants and their impact on human consciousness. Critics appreciate its accessible yet insightful narrative and rich historical context. However, some find its discursiveness a bit overwhelming. Overall, it’s an enlightening read for both newcomers and enthusiasts of plant pharmacology.

Who should read this

Who Should Read This Is Your Mind on Plants?

Readers who enjoyed How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan or Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari will relish This Is Your Mind on Plants. It's ideal for those curious about psychoactive botanicals, the cultural history of mind-altering plants, and Pollan's engaging exploration into human consciousness.

4.2

33,630 ratings

70%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Michael Pollan

An American author recognized for his in-depth investigation of food, agricultural systems, and the cultural significance of psychedelic substances. He is known for his thoughtful exploration of plant drugs and legal discrepancies surrounding them.

An American author noted for his work that informs gardeners about poppy cultivation and its potential uses. In Pollan's article, he becomes an illustrative figure in discussions about drug laws and enforcement.

A Native American leader noted for advocating the use of peyote as a healing tool and ceremonial practice. His efforts contributed significantly to the formation of the Native American Church.

An American anthropologist admired for his dedication to documenting and preserving Native American cultural practices. He advocated for the survival of these traditions amid government pressures to assimilate Indigenous peoples.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2020s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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