The Book On the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are Alan Watts

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The BookOn the Taboo Against Knowing Who You AreAlan Watts

Many Westerners internalize the idea that each of us is an individual—separate from others and our surroundings. However, in The Book, British philosopher Alan Watts argues that the concept of humans as separate beings is an illusion: the ego illusion. According to Watts and the Vedanta spiritual philosophy, each of us is a manifestation of one Cosmic Being that encompasses everything in the universe. He argues that if Westerners can release their ego, they can end some of the biggest problems plaguing their society: conflict with people and nature, chronic dissatisfaction with the present, and fear of death.

In the guide, we’ll define the ego illusion and what Watts believes is our true identity. Then, we’ll explain how Western society perpetuates the ego illusion, its dangerous consequences for humankind, and how Westerners can release their ego. Throughout the guide, we’ll also include practical advice for embodying the philosophy.

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