Joel Kramer - The Guru Papers: Masks of Authoritarian Power

Easily the most comprehensive, erudite, and timely book to explore authoritarianism in religion, institutions, power, the family, intimacy and sexual relations, and personal problems such as addiction. Argue[s] persuasively that any system of values that places tradition and the past above the imperative to question the present is destined to become increasingly lethal. San Francisco Chronicle Book Review

A thorough, wide-ranging analysis of the way power has historically been maintained. A diagnosis of whats wrong with the world and how to fix it. Its thesis is elegant and nearly unlimited in its ramifications. [Shows that] authoritarianism is part of the way we think. The New Mexican(Santa Fe)

Dont be deceived by the title. The Guru Papers is about much more than cult groups. A profoundly important critique of the covert authoritarianism of most religions and of such cultural values as unconditional love, addiction, and 12-step programs. Thought-provoking and radically important. Extraordinarily rich and complex. An important contribution to changing [old paradigms]. Liberty

Spells out the dangers of becoming addicted to anothers authority in any sphere of life. Times Literary Supplement(London)

A breathtakingly profound analysis. One of the most deeply insightful works of our time. Nearly every page crackles with statements that provoked one Aha! after another as I saw elements of culture, history, and my own experience from a new perspective that made immediate sense. A magnificent contribution. The most reasonable and coherent picture of the evolution of religious ideas to date, and brilliant sections on love and control, and addiction. A vision of spirituality beyond authoritarianism. [and] tremendous contribution to our collective understanding. Richard Heinberg, author ofBlackout

The Guru Papers is essential reading [for] questions of power, shadow, authority, spiritual growth and freedom. The go to book for understand[ing the] shadow aspect of spirituality. A masterpiece of lucid reasoning. It encourages a deep consideration of the path to genuine freedom and self-acceptance. Down-to-earth guide to understanding several of the central spiritual questions with which we all wrestle. Genuinely life-changing food for thought. Central to their thesis is that we need to find ways to go beyond authoritarian systems if we are to truly grow up as human beings and survive on this planet together

I have never come across a more comprehensive treatment of both the various methods of enacting spiritual control and disempowerment, as well as how various belief systems make this possible. The authors masterfully point out how philosophies that use abstract conceptions of oneness and non-duality often actually. encourage in-group identification and psychological fragmentation while perpetuating an unwillingness to see reality. A bracing, illuminating, well-written, comprehensive, brilliant look at what needs to be grasped for spirituality to [be] a force for healing, genuine growth and responsibility, and positive change in the world. Julian Walker, Elephant Journal

Provocative and thorough. Unmask[s] the countless manifestations of authoritarianism in our contemporary culture. Cover[s] vast territory rais[es] all the vitally important questions. It should definitely be placed in the hands of anyone who has been, or is, or contemplates becoming involved with a guru. Georg Feuerstein, Yoga Journal

Expands the concept of authoritarianism and gives a new slant on the human condition. Shows that to overcome our staggering problems, we must learn to think non-authoritarian. The convincing arguments will make readers re-sort their thinking. John Irwin, author ofThe Felon

The questions raised by it are so profound that they can never be put out of ones mind. The Humanist

[Can] shift readers minds in a deep way. [Theyre] onto something big. Elegantly articulates many of [our]. unformed thoughts Synapse

The Guru Papers answers a host of questions about the source of recurring problems. It unmasks the insidiously pervasive nature of authoritarian values that permeate society. Without awareness of how authoritarianism operates below the level of awareness, we too are likely to become its victims. Perceptive guidelines for detecting hidden authoritarianism and intervention strategies for self-empowerment. Deals with the most fundamental aspects of the Yin and Yang of human nature and the meaning of social community. Philip Zimbardo, author ofPsychology and Life

Laser clarity. Fascinating insights into the leader/follower relationship. [and] the usually veiled authoritarianism embedded in world views and values. One of the most compelling, cant put it down books Ive read in a long time, [it] offers challenging concepts for egalitarian communities Communities Magazine

With x-ray analysis and laser precision it discloses authoritarian structures. It expands consciousness of the consciousness journey itself, exposing its ever present darker side. It even offers a flashlight guide through this darkness. Uncompromising in its thesis, sparing no current idol, it is a poignant attack on the illusions of our times. Mike Arons, professor emeritus of psychology, West Georgia College

Undertake[s] the monumental task of reforming the very basis of civilization. Step[s] on nearly every sacred cow. Offers both affirmation and optimism. Creative Loafing(Atlanta)

For those who prefer to have their world grounded in comfortable, familiar dogmas, this book will make their hair stand on end. Dissect[s], with the best scientific rigor, many old standards of belief. Fate Magazine

Offers new insights for restructuring a more functional and caring society by exposing the cultural authoritarianism that undermines democracy. James Austin, coauthor ofIts About Time

Filled with insight. Deconstructs the authoritarianism of modernity. The Guru Papers can help change agents reconceptualize what they are trying to do and how they are trying to do it Journal of Organizational Change Management

The chapter on addiction presents an exciting and provocative new concept about the origin and process of addiction. A must read for therapists and addiction counselors. Ann McKain, past President of The American Academy of Psychotherapists

A tour-de-force. Fascinating model of the psychology of addictive behavior. Profound and compelling account of the endless battle between warring aspects of our beingand how we might become whole. Their writings have been an indispensable resource in my clinical work. Jeffrey Rubin, author ofThe Art of Flourishing

Ambitious treatise [on] the foundation of our social and self-control mechanisms. [The addiction chapter] take[s] on the disease model. and also responsibility models. As a long time researcher of addiction, I found [it] a refreshing analysis of predominant theories of substance abuse. [Their] own model of the divided psyche and why it feels good to be bad was not only original but resonant. Particularly useful regarding the futility of the drug war/punitive approach. Marsha Rosenbaum,