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Higher and Friendly Powers
Season 1 · Episode 63

Higher and Friendly Powers

Cracking Addiction

October 26, 202235m 52s

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Show Notes

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we speak to Professor Peg O'Connor, a professor of moral philosophy who is in recovery from alcohol use disorder and who addresses an audience much like herself: those in recovery who have struggled with the Christian-centric God at the heart of Alcoholics Anonymous. She brings our attention to a little-known fact: the term “higher power,” a touchstone in the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, was coined by William James, philosopher, psychologist, and intellectual giant of the early 20th century. 

In this book Professor O'Connor addresses concepts such as:

  • Understanding the Concept of “Higher Power” at the Heart of the 12-Step Program 
  • Why There Must Be Multiple Paths out of Addiction and No One is the Best or Right
  • Why Needs in Recovery Change over Time
  • Undertaking Spiritual Recovery in AA without a Religious Denomination

Professor O'Connor's book 'Higher and Friendly Powers: Transforming Addiction and Suffering' can be ordered from her website: https://pegoconnorauthor.com/ as well as Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wildhouse Publications.