Danny Jones Podcast #322 - Priests on Psychedelic Drugs: The Governments Search for a New God | Dr. Matthew Johnson
Aug 11, 2025
In this conversation, Dr. Matthew Johnson, a renowned expert on psychedelics from Johns Hopkins, shares his insights into the complex interplay between psychedelics and spirituality. He discusses the ethical dilemmas of government drug experiments, the transformative potential of psychedelics in therapy, and the intriguing shared experiences among DMT users. Johnson also explores the connection between drug use and consciousness, questioning societal norms around substances. His expertise sheds light on how these drugs could redefine spirituality and healing.
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Clergy Report Lasting Mystical Effects
- Johns Hopkins found clergy often had profound mystical experiences after psilocybin sessions.
- Matthew Johnson says many participants reported long-term spiritual meaning and life changes.
Undisclosed Funder Participated In Study
- Matthew Johnson describes an undisclosed funder acting as an unreported study guide in the Hopkins clergy trial.
- He raised ethical concerns when the relationship wasn't listed on the IRB protocol.
Psychedelics Have A Real Dark Side
- Johnson warns psychedelics have a real 'dark side' including severe bad trips and rare dangerous behaviors.
- He argues research must transparently study harms as well as benefits.
