States of consciousness is usually a big hit with students. They're very curious about psychoactive drugs. They're excited to try meditating. They're shocked that hypnosis is a real thing that professionals do. They absolutely LOVE to share strange dreams that they've had.
All the excitement and curiosity makes this a really fun unit to teach. It can also be loads of fun to read about! There are tons of books that dive deeply into various subtopics and can give you some fun tidbits to share with your students throughout this unit.
Here's my list of fun reads that cover some aspect of consciousness or a specific state of consciousness. Each one will help improve understanding of these topics to help teach from a more informed perspective.
How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael Pollan
I love everything I've seen or read from Michael Pollan. He's written extensively about food and I recently binged his "Intentional Eating" MasterClass -- highly recommend. So when I saw that he had written a book on psychedelics, I had to pick it up. In this book, he delves into the world of psychedelics, providing a comprehensive and accessible examination of their history, cultural impact, and recent resurgence in scientific research. This book is on the longer side, but is part investigative journalism, part personal narrative, as Pollan recounts his own experiences with psychedelics in the context of therapeutic and spiritual exploration.
"Psychedelics found their way into psychotherapy, where they were used to treat a variety of disorders, including alcoholism, anxiety, and depression. For most of the 1950s and early 1960s, many in the psychiatric establishment regarded LSD and psilocybin as miracle drugs."
Pollan traces the origins of psychedelic substances, from their use in ancient cultures to the counterculture movements of the 1960s. He then explores the interruption of psychedelic research due to legal restrictions and societal concerns, leading to a renaissance in recent years as scientists revisit the therapeutic potential of substances like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms) and LSD. Pollan also addresses the neuroscience behind psychedelics, discussing their effects on consciousness and brain function. He demystifies the stigma surrounding these substances and advocates for a more open and informed dialogue. This read will help you approach conversations around psychedelics from a scientifically informed perspective as you guide students through this sometimes challenging topic.
Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction by Judith Grisel
Judith Grisel, a behavioral neuroscientist with a background in psychology, draws on her personal experiences with addiction and her scientific expertise to offer a nuanced understanding of the complex nature of addiction. In this short book, she seamlessly weaves together her own struggles with addiction, her academic research, and insights from her professional journey. Grisel explores the neuroscience behind addiction, delving into the intricate workings of the brain and how substances can hijack its reward system.
"There will never be enough drug, because the brain's capacity to learn and adapt is basically infinite. What was once a normal state punctuated by periods of high, inexorably transforms to a state of desperation that is only temporarily subdued by drug."
Throughout the book, Grisel challenges common misconceptions about addiction, emphasizing that it is not simply a matter of weak willpower but involves profound changes in brain chemistry. She discusses the impact of genetics, environment, and personal choices on the development and persistence of addictive behaviors. Grisel shares stories of resilience and hope, demonstrating that understanding the neuroscience of addiction can pave the way for more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker
In this book, renowned sleep scientist, Matthew Walker, takes us on a journey through the various stages of sleep, unraveling the mysteries of why we sleep and dream. He delves into the evolutionary and biological purposes of sleep, emphasizing its critical role in memory consolidation, learning, emotional regulation, and physical health. The book provides a comprehensive look at the consequences of sleep deprivation, both short-term and long-term, on our cognitive functions, mood, and immune system. Walker also explores the links between inadequate sleep and various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.
"We sleep for a rich litany of functions, plural--an abundant constellation of nighttime benefits that service both our brains and our bodies."
Overall, Why We Sleep not only educates readers on the science behind sleep but also advocates for the recognition of sleep as a pillar of good health and optimal cognitive function. It's a thought-provoking and informative read that may very well change the way you perceive and prioritize your nightly rest. If you're intrigued, but prefer videos to books, Walker also has a MasterClass and his is all about sleep -- once again, highly recommend!
Have you read any of these, or any other books about consciousness? Share in the comments below!
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