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Certainly neo-Platonism, Plotinus and Porphyry and that…

“Certainly neo-Platonism, Plotinus and Porphyry and that school are psychedelic philosophers. Their idea of an ascending hierarchy of more and more rarefied states is a sophisticated presentation of the shamanic cosmology, which is the cosmology that one experientially discovers when they involve…” quote by Terence McKenna
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“Certainly neo-Platonism, Plotinus and Porphyry and that school are psychedelic philosophers. Their idea of an ascending hierarchy of more and more rarefied states is a sophisticated presentation of the shamanic cosmology, which is the cosmology that one experientially discovers when they involve themselves with psychedelics.”

Terence McKenna

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Neo‑Platonism’s hierarchical view mirrors shamanic journeys, suggesting psychedelics reveal layers of reality.

In simple terms: Psychedelic experience shows a ladder of increasingly subtle states.

Key Takeaway

Explore inner layers through mindful psychedelic practice.

Themes

philosophy psychedelia spirituality hierarchy

Mood

reflective curious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Therapeutic sessions
  • personal growth retreats
  • creative brainstorming
  • spiritual ceremonies

Key Concepts

Neoplatonism shamanic cosmology altered consciousness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you integrate subtle states into daily life?
  • What practices ground psychedelic insights?
A Different Perspective

Such hierarchies can be overly abstract, risking intellectualization over lived experience.

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