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by Robin Sharma
Occult America summary
Mitch Horowitz
Brief summary
Occult America by Mitch Horowitz is a captivating exploration of the secret history of mysticism in the United States. It delves into the lives of influential figures and uncovers the hidden spiritual movements that have shaped American culture.
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Occult America
Summary of key ideas
Exploring America's Occult History
In Occult America, Mitch Horowitz embarks on a journey to explore the hidden history of America's mysticism, from the early days of the nation to the present. He begins by delving into the spiritual practices of the Native Americans and the mystical beliefs of the early European settlers, showing how these diverse influences shaped the country's spiritual landscape.
Horowitz then delves into the 19th century, a period marked by the rise of spiritualism, the belief in communication with the dead. He discusses the spiritualist movement's profound impact on American culture and politics, highlighting figures like the Fox sisters, who claimed to communicate with spirits, and Andrew Jackson Davis, a famous medium and author.
The Occult in American Society
As Horowitz moves into the 20th century, he examines the growing interest in Eastern spirituality. He explains how the teachings of Indian gurus like Paramahansa Yogananda and Swami Vivekananda found a receptive audience in America, influencing figures like Steve Jobs and George Harrison.
The author also explores the influence of occult beliefs on American society. He discusses the role of secret societies like the Freemasons and the Rosicrucians and their impact on American politics and culture. He also examines the rise of New Thought, a spiritual movement that emphasized the power of the mind and positive thinking.
The Influence of Occult Ideas
Horowitz then turns his attention to the 1960s counterculture, a period marked by a resurgence of interest in mysticism and the occult. He discusses the influence of figures like Timothy Leary, who popularized the use of psychedelic drugs as a means of spiritual exploration, and the rise of the Wiccan and Pagan movements.
He also examines the impact of occult ideas on popular culture, from the influence of astrology on fashion and music to the widespread interest in paranormal phenomena. He shows how these beliefs have shaped American society in ways that are often overlooked.
The Modern Occult Landscape
In the final sections of Occult America, Horowitz brings us to the present day, exploring the contemporary occult landscape. He discusses the growing interest in alternative healing practices like Reiki and crystal therapy and the increasing popularity of practices like yoga and meditation.
He also addresses the rise of the New Age movement and the increasing acceptance of once-fringe beliefs like reincarnation and psychic phenomena. Horowitz concludes by arguing that occult ideas and practices continue to play a significant role in shaping American culture and spirituality.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Occult America offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the hidden history of American mysticism. Horowitz sheds light on a diverse range of beliefs and practices that have shaped the country's spiritual landscape, challenging us to reconsider our understanding of American history and culture.
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What is Occult America about?
Occult America by Mitch Horowitz delves into the history of occult and mystical movements in the United States. From the founding fathers’ interest in secret societies to the rise of spiritualism and New Thought, this book uncovers the hidden influences that have shaped American culture and spirituality.
Occult America Review
Occult America (2009) explores the hidden history of mystical movements in the United States and their impact on society. Here’s why this book is worth delving into:
- Unveils the intriguing occult practices that have influenced American culture throughout history, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of the nation's past.
- Examines how these movements have shaped beliefs, politics, and social dynamics, offering a fresh perspective on the country's historical development.
- Presents a fascinating narrative of supernatural beliefs and esoteric traditions that are sure to captivate readers interested in hidden realms of American history.
Who should read Occult America?
Readers interested in the history and evolution of occult and esoteric movements in America
Individuals curious about the intersection of spirituality and alternative belief systems in the United States
Those seeking a deeper understanding of the cultural and social influences of occult teachings on American society
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Occult America FAQs
What is the main message of Occult America?
The main message of Occult America explores the history of mystical and esoteric traditions influencing the United States.
How long does it take to read Occult America?
Reading Occult America takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in approximately 15 minutes.
Is Occult America a good book? Is it worth reading?
Occult America is worth reading for its insightful look at lesser-known aspects of American history and spiritual movements.
Who is the author of Occult America?
Mitch Horowitz is the author of Occult America.
What to read after Occult America?
If you're wondering what to read next after Occult America, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
- On Being by Peter Atkins
- The Biology of Belief by Bruce H. Lipton
- Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hanson
- Choose Yourself by James Altucher
- Going Clear by Lawrence Wright
- The Power of No by James Altucher & Claudia Azula Altucher
- The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan