About this project
Secret Drugs of Buddhism represents over four decades of research by Buddhist scholar Mike Crowley into the use of psychoactive sacraments in the religions of India.
Beginning with prehistoric cultures of central Asia, the book considers drug use from prehistoric central Asia, through the Indus Valley civilization and then Vedic ritual to medieval Indian Buddhism and, eventually Tibet.
The author points out that some mythic elements (e.g. Shiva's blue throat) rely on simple (Sanskrit) word-play to conceal allusions to psychoactive plants. Some of this research has already been aired in learned journals (e.g. Time & Mind) but the book treats the subject in far more detail.
Goal: To print 3,000 - 5,000, pp460, 9"x6", paperback copies. Over 100 b&w illustrations, plus pp8 of color plates. Five appendices, glossary, index. Foreword by Ann Shulgin.
Risks and challenges
The book is complete - layout, editing, and proofreading are done; cover design is in progress. I do not anticipate any problems with the actual printing - the biggest challenge ahead is distribution. I have spoken with some other authors about distribution services and, with their advice, I believe that this hurdle can be easily overcome (though it may require a significant percentage of the cover price).
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Funding period
- (30 days)