This book argues against the dominant discourse in contemporary psychotherapy - scientific materialism - and for the discovery of spiritual meaning. "A unique, coherent and multi-faceted volume. For those who find the Jungian use of alchemy bewildering, the book brings clarity and much-needed explanation. For those already into alchemy, the sheer range of topics covered and the vigour of the writing - from philosophy of science to religious experience to clinical practice - will make for an indispensable resource. Now that the intellectual and cultural climate in the West demonstrates the shifting, relative and mutable nature of things like science, bodies, sexualities, health and illness, we are justified in asking, together with these authors: Why does anyone need to be afraid of alchemy?" - Andrew Samuels, Professor of Analytical Psychology, University of Essex