This presentation was given live, on 11/20/2024 and is now available on demand below.
We’re excited to invite you to a live presentation and Q&A with our friend and colleague, William Phipps. In it, he will explore the far reaching history of psychedelics, from early civilization’s ritualistic uses, to the modern day psychedelic renaissance. An earlier version of this talk was received with wide acclaim at the 2024 PsyCon event in Denver.
Presentation Description:
The history of psychedelics, as viewed through the lens of modern, scientific perspective, is roughly 120 years old. German chemist Arthur Heffter first synthesized mescaline in 1897, and kicked off the study of these unique compounds in the west.
However, what we call psychedelics today have been used for thousands of years across the globe. We’ll take a look at some of the prehistoric uses of entheogenic medicine, delve into the mystery traditions at the heart of western culture, and trace the pagan continuity theory (with its longstanding use of psychotropic concoctions) through to the modern era.
Viewing these compounds through a broader evolutionary lens can help us understand the power, potential, and pitfalls of entheogenic medicine, and the unique role they play in human culture. Hopefully this perspective can engender a more integrated use of psychedelics in today’s world.
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