Nigel McGilchrist’s book, which was released in July of 2022, looks at the moment in history when a way of thinking which we can truly call ‘Western’ was born. It was a fruitful coming together of the ancient knowledge of the East – of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and India – with the restless curiosity and ingenuity of the Greek mind. It was a hinge moment in which what we understand as the scientific way of thinking, first gained traction. And yet it was a science that was also deeply imbued with spiritual awareness and a sense of the beauty and unity of creation.

The central figure of this extraordinary story is Pythagoras – traveler, listener, thinker, merchant of ideas – an often misunderstood progenitor of so much that we cherish, and consider valuable, in Western civilization.

Nigel will talk about his book in the auditorium, followed by a book signing and reception. The book will be available for sale for $40 

This event is in person at Santa Barbara Museum of Art's Mary Craig Auditorium.

For visitors attending events in the Mary Craig Auditorium, proof of vaccination is not required, and face covering/masks are recommended, but not required.