Pointed observations - Kevin R. D Shepherd

Wide-ranging critique of alternative thought, including the workshop vogue of Esalen, the pro-drugs lobby, the transpersonalism of Stanislav Grof, the integralism of Ken Wilber, the occultism of Aleister Crowley, and the ecovillage project of the Findhorn Foundation. Aspects of religious thought are also covered, including Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and the "Sai Baba movement" of India. The ishraqu philosophical tradition of Islamic Iran gains a cameo profile. An anchor complement is afforded by a treatment of Hume and Spinoza, with some remarks on arts and crafts and the traditional workshop. Moral issues are confronted. Finally, the subject of ecology is analysed from a viewpoint using the reassessed Club of Rome as a point of departure. The coverage also promotes a citizen sociology advocating a firm moral stance in relation to the increase of crime and other problems. There is also a critical appendix on the Scientific and Medical Network with recent information.