Dark Star Rising: Magick and Power in the Age of Trump
✍️ Lachman, GaryGary Lachman, a renowned historian of esotericism, meticulously investigates the subtle yet profound influence of occult and mystical philosophies on contemporary geopolitics. This compelling work delves into how concepts ranging from positive thinking and New Thought to the disruptive energies of Chaos Magick and the traditionalist doctrines of figures like Julius Evola have subtly permeated political movements, notably impacting the rise of the alt-right and the Trump era. Lachman traces a fascinating lineage of ideas, revealing the "mind-magicians" and esoteric currents often overlooked in mainstream analyses of power and belief, urging readers to look beyond surface narratives.
Praise for this book
“Clocking in at 394 pages jam-packed with in-depth information, factoids, anecdotes and insights from the first sentence to the last. A historical biography through and through, Lachman's book is meticulously researched and it is quite easy to believe that the author, like a professor well-versed in their subject, could analyze and extrapolate at much greater lengths.”
“Colin Wilson came to a sudden and unparalleled celebrity with his first book, The Outsider, in 1956, and after that was strenuously ignored by every respectable critic. So much for respectability. Gary Lachman has written an intellectual biography of a writer who might be called the only optimistic existentialist, and done him justice.”
“In Beyond the Robot: The Life and Work of Colin Wilson, author Gary Lachman has done us a great service in illumining what an original and inspired thinker Wilson was. In the process of doing so, the question arose in my mind as reader: Is Lachman himself stepping into becoming the modern-day Colin Wilson? This is one of those rare books that I read cover to cover, not wanting to miss a word. I simply loved it!”
📝 Description: Dark Star Rising: Magick and Power in the Age of Trump
💎 Expert review
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers fascinated by the hidden undercurrents of political history will find this book indispensable for understanding the ideological roots of the Trump era. Lachman’s meticulous investigation reveals how concepts from positive thinking to traditionalist doctrines have subtly permeated alt-right movements. It offers a unique lens for those seeking to look beyond surface narratives, providing clarity on the 'mind-magicians' shaping global events. By tracing these overlooked esoteric currents, the text empowers readers to grasp the profound influence of mystical philosophies on contemporary power structures, making it essential for anyone interested in the intersection of belief and politics.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Lachman delivers a compelling investigation into the subtle yet profound influence of occult philosophies on modern geopolitics. While his tracing of ideas from New Thought to Chaos Magick is fascinating, this work may not suit readers seeking straightforward political reporting or those uninterested in esoteric theory. It assumes a willingness to engage with complex philosophical lineages rather than simple partisan analysis. However, for those ready to delve into the 'mind-magicians' behind power, it provides a vital, candid look at the traditionalist doctrines and disruptive energies that have shaped recent history. It is a rigorous study for the intellectually curious.
❓ Frequently asked questions
📖 Who should read this
If you're fascinated by the intersection of mysticism, power, and current events, and seek to understand the deeper, often hidden, currents beneath the political landscape, this book is for you. Prepare to challenge your assumptions about what truly drives history.
🎯 Key themes and symbolism
Occult Political Influence
Lachman explores how various esoteric and magical traditions are not just historical curiosities but active forces shaping political ideologies and outcomes. He connects seemingly disparate threads of occult thought to contemporary power dynamics, suggesting that unseen magical and mind-based practices play a role in the decisions and narratives that define our world, particularly in the context of recent global shifts.
Mind Power & Modern Magick
The book meticulously examines the evolution of 'mind power' philosophies, from the positive affirmations of New Thought to the more radical and experimental practices of Chaos Magick. Lachman elucidates how these ideas, focusing on belief shaping reality and the manipulation of symbols, have found unexpected applications within political spheres, influencing movements and individuals seeking to manifest their will on a grand scale.
Far-Right Esoteric Roots
Lachman unearths the complex connections between traditionalist and far-right esoteric philosophies, notably those championed by figures like Julius Evola, and their resonance within contemporary alt-right movements. He scrutinizes how these often obscure and controversial ideas provide a philosophical underpinning or a mythic framework for certain political factions, contributing to their worldview and strategic approaches.
📜 Historical context
📚 Glossary
- New Thought
- Chaos Magick
- Alt-Right
📔 Questions to reflect on
- How might our understanding of political power shift if we consider the influence of 'mind-magicians' and esoteric philosophies more seriously?
- Reflect on a recent political or social event. Can you identify any underlying narratives or symbolic elements that echo the 'magical thinking' Lachman describes?
- In what ways do concepts like 'positive thinking' or 'manifestation' manifest in contemporary culture beyond just personal development, perhaps influencing group dynamics or political rhetoric?
