The Secret Psychology of Freemasonry: Alchemy, Gnosis, and the Science of the Craft

The synopsis and comments for this book were very intriguing. The title itself contains references to three subjects that always fascinate - psychology, Freemasonry, and alchemy. In all, this book was certainly worth the time spent reading it, however with that said it is a very quick read, especially once you omit the appendices.One major note - as mentioned by the author himself in one of the later chapters, this book was written for Initiates only, and not for the profane (non-Masons). While that might sounds intriguing to some readers, I have to caution that quite a lot of the terminology used in this book are subtle references to things that only those with an intimate knowledge of Freemasonry will be able to pick up on. I would imagine that without the context, much of this book's information would be lost to the reader. Just my two cents on that.Of the higher notes in this book, are the clearly explained analogies between various offices of the lodge, alchemical elements, Jungian archetypes, and even the various sections of the brain. For example, the Posterior commissure is associated with the Worshipful Master in the East, since its function within the brain is adapting the eye ("I") to varying degrees of darkness and light. There is also a very compelling case made that the biblical story and and ritual within the Lodge are metaphors for the process of discovering higher-thinking. In essence, the various degrees and motions correlate alchemical concepts of calcination and purification. In psychological terms, the premise is that Lodge appeals directly to our left brain, shining light on our more creative and accepting selves. Or at least, that's the gist I got from it.There are also a number of interesting facts along the way, for example it was interesting to read that in the dividing gauge we have a number divided by three, into 888 - which corresponds to the Greek letters of "Jesus" when translated numerically. Finally, the explanation of the penalties for each degree are explained in psychological and alchemical terms, which was an intriguing idea - although unfortunately, not fleshed out into as much detail as I was hoping.On the down side of this book - it seems to digress a little into the basics of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) or the basic psychology of communication in general. On its own, that's fine, and even a welcomed addition since I also find that topic extremely interesting. However, these basic concepts are introduced as some kind of "Secret Psychology of Freemasonry." The end result seems like a poorly meshed combination of ideas. I wasn't at any point convinced of the idea that Freemasons and older mystery schools had somehow discovered the massive power behind charisma and capitalizing on social networking and extroversion.Beyond that, a good portion of this book (at least 30%) deals directly with how to resolve conflicts between grumpy "Northern" members of Lodge. Again, I can appreciate this perspective and may even agree with lots of the issues raised, however the book then digresses into examples of how to use NLP and general observation, to appeal to each person's different personality. Again, while it's certainly a valid application of NLP in the context of Lodge - it seemed a bit like false advertising, that it was actually sold as a Masonic secret.In summary, for Freemasons looking for help in dealing with stubborn members within the Lodge, this is basically a how-to guide for approaching and appealing to them. Where it falls short, are the promises made in the title. While the author does a good job of introducing some very subtle links between Freemasonry, alchemy, and psychology - they aren't explored into very much detail, and instead the book tends to focus on mediating conflicts between people. If that was the topic I was really interested in, I would have found a more general book on the subject. I just wish this book's description was a bit more upfront about the real focus of the writing.

The basics of the author's view are very good with many valuable points. Agree that current Masonry falls short of the its intended plan (see Andrew Hammer's "Observing the Craft" or Steinmetz for other views). He does cover the influences on Masonry with emphasis on alchemy which is the strongest part of the book. He brings in ancient cultures and influences such as Judaism and Egyptian mythology. Good sections on numerology and some of the symbolism of the rituals and symbols. Does brings out many of the benefits of Masonry which can be many. The appendixes provide additional valuable information and guidance. Biggest fault is the author's fear of giving away the "secrets." In this day and age the only secret is that there are no secrets! Still very good addition to any collection on Masonry.

Excellent book by all accounts. This Book hits the nail head on from my perspective and enlightens me to a new understanding. He combines his knowledge of people as a police officer with his understanding of Freemasonry as a Brother to bring us to conclusions that we may otherwise overlook. Police and Detectives have a certain perspective that the rest of us might not. They know human nature. Many of them have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. I suggest this book to any brother looking to further refine his public speaking and persuasion skills. I read this book as a student. I read his biography and I decided that his credentials speak for themself. I humbly said "Teach me master!" Armed with this knowledge, I've found myself more adept to handling situations from the simplest to the most complex; especially as it pertains to communication. I don't give a five star review lightly, but here it is Brother!

The subject presented by Porter, certainly is presented from an investigators study of personalities, and the application of scientific studies on human behavior. His techniques are of interest on many levels, related to simple day to day interviews, casual conversations with newly met acquaintances, or a deeper more intense interrogation level. Many of his considerations, I have seen and have used during an earlier period of employment in the interviews of job seekers. A subject which anyone wishing to determine an individuals, suitability for joining a society, club or work place might well consider at least reading through if not studying closely the words and methods presented

I have both the Kindle and Paperback copy of this book and I have to say it is an eye opener. With the knowledge contained within it, I was better able to understand and bond with the brethren in my lodge. I am a Past Master of my lodge and will be coming up the line again shortly and with the insights presented here, I am sure to have a better year in the East. Brother Cliff has a lot to teach to the Craft, some of it is not well received due to the prevailing attitude of "We've never done it that way and we don't need to start now." He is a beacon of true Masonic Light and I always enjoy reading his columns in Living Stones Magazine. I sincerely hope his next book is as informative.

Porter's assessment of personality types is essential to any Mason who seeks to advance beyond just sitting in lodge and observing the work. I wish I had had this information available to me twenty years ago when I first sat as Worshipful Master of my own lodge. I'm truly grateful I have read it this time around. It will be an essential tool in my kit to make myself a better leader and observer of the men I ask to help me help the lodge succeed. Well done Cliff.

I found the descriptions of the archetypes poorly done and confusing and that the attempts at linking them to particular roles within the ritual were unsuccessful. I would not recommend this book at all. For a much better look at masculine archetypes - which you can see reflected in Freemasonry without any explicit references required - read "King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine" by Robert Moore.

In my quest for light, this book was exactly what I needed, timed perfectly for myself and the broader community.My sincerest gratitude.