Eastern Wisdom, Modern Life

Collected Talks: 1960-1969

Alan Watts introduced millions of Western listeners to Zen and other Eastern philosophies, but he’s also recognized as a brilliant commentator on Judeo-Christian traditions as well as a celebrity philosopher who exemplified the ideas — and lifestyle — of the 1960s counterculture. In this compilation of controversial lectures, delivered at American universities throughout the decade, Watts challenges listeners to reevaluate Western culture’s most hallowed constructs. Watts treads familiar ground, interpreting Eastern traditions, and also covers new territory, exploring the counterculture’s basis in the ancient tribal and shamanic cultures of Asia, Siberia, and the Americas.

In the process, he addresses some of the era’s most important questions: What is the nature of reality? And how does an individual’s relationship to society affect this reality? Filled with his playful, provocative style, the talks show the remarkable scope of a philosopher in his prime, exploring and defining the '60s counterculture as only Alan Watts could.

©2021 Alan W. Watts (P)2021 Alan W. Watts

Wu wei

Best lectures to get to. I feel privileged and also appreciate the opportunity to learn from him. Thank you to Alan watts foundation.

WOW

Just, WOW. All around.
I haven't heard such simple yet profound depth and clarity, EVER, to date. And I've been reading this kind of stuff for decades.
Alan Watts is now my TOP favorite author, along side James Allen.
This is also my first formal, public review of a book. I just couldn't NOT recommend it.

Wise words from a broken man

If you research the life of Mr. Watts. You’ll soon realize he was like all of us. Just had the decency to share what he found out.

pretty good.

I was surprised to hear youtube videos in this collection, some of the content was repeated.

Watts is wise

This audio book messed up is excellent talks by adding music. His words are enough.