Antonio Escohotado Reflects on a Life of Intense Experiences and Intellectual Pursuits

Antonio Escohotado, a prominent Spanish philosopher and essayist, continues to captivate with his rich life experiences and intellectual pursuits. Living near the Guadarrama River, he maintains a deep connection to his ancestral land, embodying a blend of historical awareness and modern sensibility. His life story is one of rebellion and exploration, tracing back to his ancestors who were involved in significant historical events, such as the Glorious Revolution in Galapagar

Escohotado's time in Ibiza from 1970 to 1983 stands as a testament to his adventurous spirit. During these years, he was instrumental in founding the iconic nightclub Amnesia, a place that became synonymous with the counterculture movement and experimentation. Despite facing legal challenges, including a notable trial in 1983 for alleged involvement with the so-called 'hippie mafia,' Escohotado's resilience shone through as he turned his incarceration into an opportunity to write his seminal work, 'Historia general de las drogas.'

His philosophical outlook on life is deeply intertwined with his experiences in the world of psychedelic substances. Escohotado describes the role of a dealer as a provider of spiritual sustenance, challenging prohibitive norms and advocating for personal freedom. His narrative often includes references to cultural icons and philosophical concepts, reflecting a deep engagement with both contemporary and ancient ideas

Now approaching the completion of his latest work, 'Los enemigos del comercio,' Escohotado looks forward to new creative endeavors. He expresses a desire to document his vibrant past through memoirs and potentially explore music, drawing inspiration from legendary figures like Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan. This transition highlights his ability to continuously reinvent himself, even as he approaches his mid-70s

Escohotado's cautious approach to cannabis use exemplifies his broader philosophy of 'sober inebriation,' a concept that values moderation and mindful consumption. He grows his own cannabis, selecting strains like Critical and Moby Dick, and maintains a disciplined routine that includes rigorous intellectual and physical activities. His views on drug use emphasize a balance between pleasure and restraint, advocating for an ethical and aesthetic approach

In conversation, Escohotado's intellectual curiosity is infectious, spanning a wide array of topics from ancient philosophy to modern sociology. His recent publication, 'Frente al miedo,' encapsulates his belief in freedom as a counter to fear and coercion. Despite any controversies surrounding his ideas, Escohotado remains a respected figure whose insights continue to provoke thought and discussion

Looking back on his life, Escohotado reflects on the inevitability of aging and the importance of living courageously. He critiques societal attitudes towards death and advocates for the dignity of choosing one's end. His reflections offer a poignant reminder of the value of a life lived with purpose and the courage to embrace one's mortality