Touching the Jaguar

Book excerpt: The author of Confessions of an Economic Hitman details the experience that transformed him into an activist. When New York Times–bestselling author John Perkins was a young Peace Corps volunteer, his life was saved by an Amazonian shaman who taught him to “touch the jaguar”—to transform his fears into positive action. He went on to become an “economic hit man” (EHM), convincing developing countries to build huge infrastructure projects that put them perpetually in debt to the World Bank and other US-controlled institutions. Although he sincerely believed this was the best model for economic development, he came to realize it was really a new form of colonialism. Returning to the Amazon, he saw the destructive impact of his EHM work. But he also was inspired by a previously uncontacted tribe that touched its jaguar by uniting with its enemies to defend its territory against invading oil and mining companies. For the first time, Perkins details how shamanism converted him from an EHM to a crusader for transforming a failing Death Economy (exploiting resources that are declining at accelerating rates) into a Life Economy (cleaning up pollution, recycling, and developing green technologies). He discusses the power our perceptions have for molding reality. And he provides a strategy for each of us to change our lives and defend our territory—the earth—against current destructive policies and systems. “This eloquent book inspires us to create a new reality of what it means to be humans on this magnificent planet.” —Deepak Chopra “Touching the Jaguar is a heartfelt exploration into the powers to change ourselves, transform businesses, and renew society—powers indigenous shamans have cultivated for millennia and we must embrace to dream the world in a new way.” —Alberto Villoldo, PhD, bestselling author of One Spirit Medicine and Shaman, Healer, Sage “Perkins is a master storyteller. In this story of deceit, divided loyalties, and ultimate redemption, he draws us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the possibilities of a human rebirth and brings us together on the path to a future that works for the whole of life.” —David Korten, author of When Corporations Rule the World