I Feel Love: MDMA and the Quest for Connection in a Fractured World

Science journalist Nuwer’s (Poached) heavily researched book focuses on the psychedelic drug MDMA, also known as molly or ecstasy. The book examines the drug’s history, which goes back to 1912, and its applications ranging from therapeutic to recreational. Viewing MDMA through multiple lenses (culture, politics, science, and society), Nuwer debunks common myths and cites numerous MDMA studies, particularly recent research indicating that MDMA can relieve the effects of trauma, depression, eating disorders, and more. The author conducted interviews with MDMA users, medical professionals, and scientists to back up her research and for anecdotal information. Although there are a few digressions into such topics as early Christianity and reasons people seek mind-altering substances, the book's information is current and accurate. Chapters, averaging 20 pages each, include endnotes, but there is no bibliography. While plenty has been written about MDMA over the years, this book summarizes and updates earlier works. Written in narrative style, Nuwer’s treatise is most effective as standard nonfiction for the unscientific reader.