Mystic Chemist – The Life of Albert Hofmann and His Discovery of LSD

Mystic Chemist is the authoritative biography of Albert Hofmann, arguably the most famous chemist of the 20th century. Written in English by Dieter A. Hagenbach and Lucius Werthmüller – close friends of Hofmann – this lavishly illustrated volume takes readers on a journey through the Swiss scientist’s remarkable life. From his mystical childhood experiences with nature and his chemistry studies under Nobel laureate Paul Karrer in Zurich, to his groundbreaking discoveries of both LSD and psilocybin at Sandoz, the book paints an intimate and comprehensive portrait of a true pioneer.

Beyond Hofmann’s personal story, the authors reveal the profound and often turbulent impact that LSD had on 20th-century culture. The narrative covers the revolution in clinical therapy, the youth movement of the 1960s, innovations in computer technology, and the birth of a new science of consciousness. The struggles between LSD’s advocates and opponents, many of which continue to this day, are explored in depth. With more than 500 photographs, illustrations, and drawings, this oversized hardcover is as visually stunning as it is informative. Albert Hofmann was voted the greatest living genius in 2007 by the Daily Telegraph – a testament to the enduring legacy of the “mystic chemist”.