Since the Enlightenment, western culture has written off ecstatic experience as a form of mental illness. But why should rationality be considered the highest part of human nature when we are capable of so many more states of experience?
Piecing together interviews, analysis of ancient and modern philosophy, and his own eclectic encounters with the sublime, philosopher Jules Evans mounts an investigation into what we can gain from mastering the art of losing control. From Aristotle and Plato to the Bishop of London and Sister Bliss, radical jihadis to Silicon Valley transhumanists, The Art of Losing Control is a funny, life-enhancing journey that will change the way you think about how you feel.
"Compelling . . . His sensitivity as a thinker, like his skill as a storyteller, is never in doubt" - * Guardian *
"A captivating exploration of humanity's journey toward self-transcendence" - * Prospect *
"In keeping with the ecstatic experience itself, this is a wild, wondrous, wide-eyed journey, and Evans has convinced me at least that it's a trip worth taking" - * Psychologist *
"Fascinating stuff . . . Evans is a natural storyteller and his honesty about his own experience is refreshing and disarming . . . A smart book that delivers on entertainment as well. Evans takes his subject matter seriously but delivers his investigations in an endlessly amusing and eye-opening manner" - * Big Issue *
"Compelling and interesting . . . Evans' honesty, humour and wisdom allow this book to stand out from the crowd . . . Every page offers a new perspective and idea on ways to address our emotions. It's a book to keep returning to, filled with highly memorable words of wisdom" - * Student Newspaper *
"An important book, because it reminds us philosophy is not just about analysis. It's also about the good life" - * The Times on Philosophy for Life *
"Instructive and thought-provoking . . . shows philosophy is not just for stuffy classrooms" - * Financial Times on Philosophy for Life *
"A revelation" - * Observer on Philosophy for Life *
