Book · 1997 · Philosophy
The Spell of the Sensuous
Perception and Language in a More-Than-Human World
Why people recommend it
The Spell of the Sensuous by David Abram is a philosophical exploration of how human perception, language, and culture are deeply interconnected with the natural environment. On an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience in November 2018, illusionist Derren Brown referenced the book while discussing the complex relationship between human beings and the world around them. Brown noted the fascinating background of the author, David Abram, who initially trained as a magician before immersing himself in indigenous communities to study their unique relationships with nature. The book was used to illustrate deeper philosophical points regarding animism and sensory awareness in contemporary society. Listeners interested in environmental philosophy, anthropology, and human sensory experience frequently turn to this text for its unique perspective on ecological consciousness. The work remains a foundational text for bridging the gap between modern psychological concepts and ancient indigenous understandings of the living earth, as highlighted by guests on influential podcasts.
Who recommended it
- Derren Brown Recommended
Derren Brown — 1 mention
“an example of this is a great book called the spell of the sensuous by david abrams who actually was a magician originally who went out and lived amongst his people”