Psychedelic Paradigms and Practices

Catalog description

The psychedelic renaissance of the 21st century has already transformed our understanding of well-being and consciousness. From radically innovative treatments that improve mental health to a new appreciation of the mechanisms and importance of mystical experiences, and a deeper understanding of consciousness itself, psychedelic research and scholarship has led to exciting breakthroughs in numerous fields. This course will cover historical and contemporary aspects of psychedelic use, explore current scientific research into neuroscience and the therapeutic uses of psychedelic therapy, and address the cultural and sociopolitical aspects. An important component of this material is a careful exploration of the ways that psychedelic use empowers both personal and societal well being by increasing a sense of community, ecological awareness, and responsibility towards the whole. Few topics span such a vast transdisciplinary terrain or have the potential to include scholars from widely varying fields - neuroscience, anthropology, visual arts, consciousness studies and spirituality, ecology, public policy, law and ethics, psychology, nursing and medicine, literature, philosophy, etc. The course will invite a variety of speakers to discuss their specific areas of expertise and to dialogue with one other.