"Food of the Gods: The Search for the Original Tree of Knowledge A Radical History of Plants, Drugs, and Human Evolution" is a book written by Terence McKenna, a renowned ethnobotanist, writer, and advocate of psychedelic substances. The book was published in 1992 and explores the relationship between human beings and psychoactive plants throughout history.
In "Food of the Gods," Terence McKenna presents a theory that early humans' interaction with certain plants and their psychoactive compounds played a significant role in the evolution of human consciousness, culture, and cognitive development. McKenna suggests that the consumption of these plants, particularly psilocybin-containing mushrooms, contributed to the development of language, religion, and self-awareness.
The book delves into various topics, including the use of psychoactive plants in ancient shamanic rituals, the suppression of these practices by organized religions and societies, and the potential benefits of re-establishing a respectful and informed relationship with such plants. McKenna argues that the modern disconnect from these natural substances has had negative consequences for human society and that a reconnection could potentially lead to positive changes in human behavior, spirituality, and ecological awareness.
"Food of the Gods" is both a historical exploration and a philosophical exploration of the role of psychoactive plants in human history. It has garnered attention for its unique perspective on the relationship between plants, consciousness, and human evolution. However, it's worth noting that the book's ideas have also been subject to criticism and debate within both scientific and academic circles.
