In the midst of our society, yet hardly noticed, a fundamental change is taking place: More and more people are turning away from religions and seeking spiritual experiences elsewhere. Free from myths and outdated notions, Sam Harris discusses the realm we today refer to as spirituality due to a lack of a better term. In a combination of personal narrative and scientific foundations, the American neuroscientist reveals what is available to all of us: awakening beyond religious belief and hope.

“A retrospective of a spiritual seeker, a scientific and philosophical investigation of the self, and a manual for transcendence – Awakening explores the nature of consciousness. The book explains how to meditate, leads to the best psychoactive substances, and warns against power-hungry gurus. This book will upend your fundamental assumptions about everyday perception – and it may change your life.” - Paul Bloom, Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Science at Yale University.

“Awakening is a precise, friendly, clear, and witty book. It points you towards the selflessness that is our true nature.” - Stephen Mitchell, co-author with Byron Katie of Loving What Is.

As a neuroscientist, Sam Harris demonstrates that our ego is an illusion, an intangible construct of our brain activity. And as a meditator with years of experience, he shows us how we can awaken to a more fulfilling life in better connection with everything around us when we leave this illusion behind. - Jerry Coyne, Professor of Biology at the University of Chicago.

Sam Harris is an American neuroscientist and the author of bestsellers such as The End of Faith, Lying, and Letter to a Christian Nation. He lives with his family in Los Angeles.