Be Here Now

Be Here Now

This highly influential, unconventional book chronicles the spiritual transformation of Harvard psychology professor Richard Alpert into the guru Ram Dass, following his travels in India and his experiences with psychedelics. Presented in three sections - covering his professional life, his spiritual journey, and practical guides for meditation and yoga - the book advocates for living fully in the present moment, hence the title, "Be Here Now."

Author Ram Dass
Genre Spiritual / Counterculture
Release January 1971
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Short Review

An iconic counterculture text that blends Eastern spirituality with Western psychological curiosity. The book's unconventional, highly graphic design and handwritten text perfectly match its experimental, transformative content. Ram Dass's voice is authentic, warm, and deeply sincere, guiding the reader through complex concepts like ego dissolution and spiritual practice with accessibility. Its emphasis on presence and simple living made it a foundational text for many innovators, including Jobs, seeking to integrate spiritual clarity with professional focus.

About the Author

Ram Dass (born Richard Alpert, 1931–2019) was an American spiritual teacher, psychologist, and author. He was a pioneer in psychedelic research at Harvard before moving to India, where he studied under Neem Karoli Baba and became a key figure in the American spiritual awakening.

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