Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Dennis McKenna: Deceptive Psychedelics, Consciousness

Aug 7, 2023

Dennis McKenna, ethnopharmacologist and brother of Terrence McKenna, delves into the intricate world of psychedelics and their communal significance. He contrasts modern individualistic practices with traditional uses, emphasizing the importance of context. McKenna also discusses the therapeutic potential of MDMA, touching on the ethical implications of altering psychedelics for treatment. With personal stories, he highlights the necessity of balance and skepticism post-experience, advocating for sober reflections to distinguish real insights from delusions.

01:27:38

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Episode guests

Dennis McKenna

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Psychedelics: A Journey of Insight and Integration

16min

Exploring Psychedelics and Innovative Shaving Solutions

11min

MDMA and the Psychedelic Landscape

29min

Finding Balance and Skepticism in Psychedelic Experiences

4min

Navigating Psychedelic Realities

17min

Exciting Updates and Community Engagement

4min

YouTube link https://youtu.be/I9fJbns2aBU

Dennis McKenna is the brother of Terrence McKenna and is an ethnopharmacologist / research pharmacognosist. His knowledge of psychedelics is extensive.

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LINKS MENTIONED:

- Brotherhood of the Screaming Abyss (Dennis' book): https://amzn.to/3QmjzmT

- ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC SEARCH FOR PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS: https://espd55.com

- Dennis' website: https://mckenna.academy/

- Karl Friston TOE podcast (Cautions on Consciousness): https://youtu.be/SWtFU1Lit3M

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:19 Dennis McKenna's working habits / quotidianness

00:03:49 "Hang up when you receive the message"

00:08:35 Psychedelics aren't meant to be taken isolated from community

00:13:22 Terrence, the family, and Brotherhood of the Screaming Abyss

00:18:46 Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs (ESPD)

00:27:49 MDMA's uses (and designer drugs)

00:40:31 Mycelium vs. fruiting bodies

00:46:03 Psychological metamorphosis without hallucinogens?

00:56:46 Staying "grounded" and not being "high" all the time

00:59:23 Terrence never found ground and got lost

01:12:13 Perils of investigations into consciousness

01:14:47 Gender differences in psychedelics

01:15:24 Love in disunity rather than pure "connectedness"

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