In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction

Dr. Gabor Maté draws on his experience as a physician working with severely addicted patients in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside to explore the nature of addiction. He combines scientific research, case studies, and personal reflection to argue that addiction stems from childhood trauma and emotional pain rather than moral failure. The book offers a compassionate, holistic understanding of addiction while examining society's role in creating conditions that foster it. Deeply humane and thought-provoking.