Modern Occultism

History, Theory, and Practice

By: Mitch Horowitz

Narrated by: Mitch Horowitz

Length: 21 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

From Cleopatra to Chaos Magic: A Vibrant, Epic History of Occultism in Thought and Practice

In his most sweeping historical work, occult scholar and widely known voice of esoteric ideas Mitch Horowitz presents a lively, intellectually serious historical exploration of modern occultism, from astrology and alchemy to the dawn of Theosophy and modern witchcraft—and the spiritual revolutions that followed.

In this lively, full-circle history, Mitch explores:

• Preservation of “hidden wisdom” in late-ancient Hermeticism.
• Rebirth of esoterica during the Renaissance, including Kabbalah, ceremonial magick, alchemy, Gnosticism—and the backlash culminating in the Thirty Years’ War.
• Rise of the modern “secret society,” such as Rosicrucians, Freemasons, and Illuminati.
• Migration of religious radicalism to the New World, including how enslaved people devised the magickal system of hoodoo.
• Wave of occultism ignited by John Dee, the Romantics, Franz Anton Mesmer, Eliphas Lévi, and P.B. Randolph.
• The revolution brought by occult explorer Madame H.P. Blavatsky.
• Growth of New Thought and mind metaphysics.
• How fin de siècle scientists devised clinical protocols to study the supernatural.
• Occult influences in politics: a delicate topic weighed maturely.
• Heterodox movements and figures such as The Process Church, TOPY, Michael Aquino, and Anton LaVey.
• Pioneering voices including Manly P. Hall, Aleister Crowley, Rudolf Steiner, Edgar Cayce, Carl Jung, Gerald Gardner, Jack Parsons, Annie Besant, G.I. Gurdjieff, Alice Bailey, Austin Osman Spare, and Carlos Castaneda.
• Surprising occult influences on wide-ranging modern icons such as Frederick Douglass, Sigmund Freud, and Isaac Newton.
• How models of interdimensionality are loosening the hold of materialism on modern thought.

©2023 Mitch Horowitz (P)2023 G&D Media

Critic reviews

“An amazing author…We are all so lucky to have you out there on the frontlines. You are a wonderful bridge connecting these ethereal, misunderstood, eyeroll-y subjects with a great methodology and with a great way of articulating them.”—Duncan Trussell, The Duncan Trussell Family Hour

“Wonderfully comprehensive...even to attempt this kind of history was a very challenging task—which Horowitz ably and amazingly pulls off...fluidly weaves in the origins, personal histories, and real-world impacts...a glorious historical mosaic that won’t soon be forgotten...The clarity of this exquisite picture, woven with an obsidian thread, invites each of us to transcend and transform.”—Jordan Gruber, Quest magazine

“A masterful exploration of the intricate and often misunderstood world of occult history, striking a rare balance as a work of scholarly rigor and engaging storytelling...both enlightening and deeply fascinating…a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding...a key resource.”—Mat Auryn, author of Psychic Witch

Peek the esoteric elephant

I remember hearing that more-than-a-few present-day Buddhist monks in America got their start in the 60s when LSD pulled off the blindfold and let them see the entire elephant. This book offers a similar peek at the esoteric elephant for students of the occult and esoteric (the book explains that difference as well).

The approach to the subject matter was even-handed, open-minded, yet maintained a healthy skepticism. It stripped away much of the salacious elements usually associated with such matters and got straight to the heart of the matter.

Additionally, I appreciated the citations and case studies as well as the genealogy of the traditions. It’s right up there with Catherine Albanese’s, “A Republic of Mind and Spirit: A Cultural History of American” and Mark Booth’s, “The Secret History of the World” as far as thorough, yet approachable guide.

Very well researched and written.

Mitch always does a fantastic job of research and presentation. This book is a lot to take in because of the sheer amount of information presented. Loved it and will read again.

A thrilling historical perspective

Mitch Horowitz delivers a thoroughly researched and thoughtful history in Modern Occultism. What a valuable resource this is for anyone trying to piece together the long narrative of occult ideas and expressions in western cultures. This could be a graduate level course. Astounding and revealing to see how modern occultism is embedded in so many facets of modern life. Excellent read.

A new reference tome for the modern occultist

This book - in time - will become the springboard or platform from whence future occultists will commence their research and branch out from there.

Not only is it obviously a document of excellent and erudite research, but it is also read with a passion and a pace that imbues facts with meaning and heart.

If I were to offer a criticism, the footnotes being included did tamper with the flow a little, but not enough to destroy the enjoyment of the reading and story itself. Thanks Mitch.

Very interesting

I really really enjoyed this listen, I learned more than I thought I would. I enjoyed the narration also

Beautiful work as always.

I’m always excited to see what is to some with this author and I sincerely appreciate the efforts, time and energy that goes into these books. Thank you for sharing your work with the world. I hope the world can return the favor someday.

Very detailed

Great book. Super detailed and done in an interesting way. Lots of references and citations.
Really enjoyed this listen, the narrator was well spoken and kept my interest during this lengthy book.

Connected many dots in the occult lineage

Mitch does an amazing job of references, and after connecting many dots for me he provides many paths to do self research. I expect to refer to this book many times & years to come.

Astounding!

"Modern Occultism" by Mitch Horowitz is a masterful exploration of the intricate and often misunderstood world of occult history, striking a rare balance as a work of scholarly rigor and engaging storytelling. Horowitz, a historian who deeply respects and believes in the significance of occult practices, presents a narrative that is both enlightening and deeply fascinating, making it an invaluable read for anyone interested in the subject. This book expands significantly beyond the scope of Horowitz's earlier work, "Occult America." While "Occult America" provides a detailed account of the occult's influence in the United States, "Modern Occultism" delves into a much wider scope, offering a global perspective that, in my opinion, surpasses its predecessor in both depth and intrigue. The book stands out for its clarity in charting the timeline of occult events. Horowitz meticulously traces the evolution of esoteric practices, from their ancient roots in Hermeticism through their resurgence during the Renaissance, to their influence on modern secret societies like the Rosicrucians and Freemasons and the often misunderstood Illuminati. This detailed chronology not only fills gaps in our understanding of occult history but also frames these events within the broader context of world history.

Horowitz's treatment of occultism is marked by both respect and level-headedness. He acknowledges the skepticism often associated with these topics while presenting a well-researched account of their development and influence. This balanced perspective allows readers to appreciate the depth and complexity of occult traditions without the bias that often accompanies historical treatments of such subjects. The book was personally revelatory for me. For instance, I was fascinated to learn how Theosophy normalized cremation in the West, influenced Mahatma Gandhi, and played a role in preserving Indian culture and contributing to India's liberation from colonial rule. Additionally, the revelation of Carl Jung's role as Agent 488, creating a personality profile of Hitler for Allen Dulles at the OSS (precursor to the CIA), was both surprising and enlightening.

Horowitz's exploration of how occultism has impacted society, from art to politics, is both engaging and informative. The far-reaching influence of esoteric occult ideas in shaping cultural and political landscapes offers insights into their often-underestimated significance. His objective examination of the intersection of occultism and politics, including influential figures and movements, enriches the narrative. Horowitz's ability to weave a philosophy throughout his historical narrative provides a deeper understanding of the underlying ideas and their evolution over time, transforming the book into a thoughtful exploration of occult traditions. His talent as a writer is evident in his ability to present traditionally dryly written academic topics in a manner that is both engaging and entertaining. He transforms what could easily be an arduous read into a lively journey, making the book not only informative but also immensely enjoyable. The book also addresses the state of occultism today, tracing its development into the contemporary era. This contemporary focus makes the book particularly relevant for modern readers, connecting the dots between past and present in the world of occultism. It helps show how we got to where we are today.

TLDR: "Modern Occultism" by Mitch Horowitz is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the history and impact of occult practices. Horowitz's scholarly yet accessible writing, combined with his unique stance as a believing historian, offers a narrative that is both educational and deeply respectful, capturing the essence of occultism’s rich and varied legacy. The book is a key resource for understanding the complex history of occultism and its enduring influence across various aspects of society.

An education in marginalized spiritual movements

The history is interesting and well-sourced , but I think the real achievement here is the holistic sense of these practices and wisdom traditions , including the missteps and unanswerable questions.