In this podcast, Elizabeth Gips interviews Terence McKenna, a psychedelic philosopher and author. They discuss the importance of psychedelics and the questions to consider when choosing a psychedelic experience. They explore DMT and cauldron chemistry in shamanic practices, as well as the significance of natural sources in psychedelic experiences. They also delve into the transformative power of psychedelics in personal growth and societal evolution. The podcast concludes with reflections on the recording and a tribute to Margine McKenna.
One important aspect discussed in the podcast is the significance of choosing psychedelic substances that have a shamanic history, occur in the tissue of a plant or animal, and resemble compounds in our brains, as these factors contribute to a safer and more meaningful experience.
Another key theme explored in the podcast is the transformative power of the psychedelic experience, which connects individuals to the entire circle of time, fostering a deep understanding of unity, interrelatedness, and personal responsibility.
Deep dives
Active Pandemic Activities
During the pandemic, the salon remained active with four live salons per week, then reduced to two. Supporters on Patreon were provided with email links to attend the live events. Links were also posted on Discord to include non-Patreon supporters.
Long-Awaited Recordings of Elizabeth Gibson
After a decade of waiting, the host, Lorenzo, discovered DVDs sent to him in 2012 containing recordings of Elizabeth Gibson's radio programs. The DVDs included interviews with Timothy Leary and Terence McKenna, and the latter interview from 1985 offers insights into Terence McKenna's older themes before he gained fame. A surprising comment he made was about the end of the Mayan calendar, differing from his later calculation.
The Importance of Natural Hallucinogens
The discussion touched on the significance of tracking down natural sources of psychedelic experiences. Natural hallucinogens that have a tradition of human use and a connection to plant or animal tissue are considered safer due to the accumulated experience of their usage. The morphogenetic field theory by Rupert Sheldrake suggests that naturally occurring drugs have a deep connection with historical and human consciousness due to their long presence in living systems.
Psychedelics and Time
The psychedelic experience was described as connecting individuals to the whole circle of time, making all time co-present. It allows for an understanding of unity and interrelatedness. The psychedelic experience enhances personal responsibility and prompts individuals to take charge of their own experiences. The emphasis was placed on personal experiences rather than the influence of scientific or cultural systems.
Support Lorenzo on Patreon.com
Guest speakers: Terence McKenna and Elizabeth Gips
PROGRAM NOTES:
This podcast is dedicated to long-time saloner MARJEAN McKENNA
This is a recording, from 1985, of an interview that Elizabeth Gips conducted with Terence McKenna at his home.
The interview begins, like most of the 1980s era McKenna interviews, with a detailed question about DMT, but Elizabeth quickly gets them on a more interesting track. And the reason that I say "more interesting" is because here in the salon we've already covered most of the nuts and bolts of various psychedelic experiences. It's the reasons that draw us to these substances that I find to be the most interesting.
When choosing a new psychedelic experience, Terence suggests asking three questions about the substance you are considering: 1) does it have a shamanic history; 2) does it occure in the tissue of a plant or animal; and 3) does it bear a simularity with compounds in our brains.
In Memoriam: Elizabeth Gips, 1922–2001
Elizabeth Gips' Obituary
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