Eastern Wisdom, Modern Life

Alan Watts introduced millions of Western readers to Zen and other Eastern philosophies, but he’s also recognised as a brilliant commentator on Judeo-Christian traditions as well as a celebrity philosopher who exemplified the ideas – and lifestyle – of the 1960s counterculture. In this compilation of controversial lectures, delivered at American universities throughout the decade, Watts challenges readers to re-evaluate Western culture’s most hallowed constructs. Watts treads familiar ground, interpreting Eastern traditions, and also covers new territory, exploring the counterculture’s basis in the ancient tribal and shamanic cultures of Asia, Siberia and the Americas. In the process, he addresses some of the era’s most important questions: What is the nature of reality? And how does an individual’s relationship to society affect this reality? Filled with his playful, provocative style, the talks show the remarkable scope of a philosopher in his prime, exploring and defining the ’60s counterculture as only Alan Watts could.

Author Biography

Alan Watts’s (1915-1973) books include The Way of Zen, The Wisdom of Insecurity and The Book: On the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are. An acclaimed writer and philosopher, Watts was also an Episcopalian minister, professor and research fellow at Harvard University.