Making Sense with Sam Harris

#242 — Psychedelics and the Self

Mar 23, 2021

Sam Harris hosts James Fadiman, a Harvard and Stanford-educated psychologist and early psychedelic researcher, known for his work in microdosing. They delve into who should safely take psychedelics and the crucial aspect of 'set and setting.' Fadiman shares insights on microdosing's antidepressant properties and cognitive benefits. They explore the distinctions between MDMA and true psychedelics, the transformative effects of psychedelics on self-identity, and the necessity of compassionate guidance in these experiences.

01:03:38

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Episode guests

James Fadiman

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Episode notes

Intro

5min

Navigating the Psychedelic Landscape

18min

Navigating Set and Setting for Psychedelic Journeys

4min

The Role and Rise of Psychedelic Guides

2min

Navigating the Psychedelic Journey: Contexts and Doses

21min

Navigating Psychedelic Experiences: Dosing and Microdosing Insights

12min

Exploring Microdosing: Benefits and Risks

2min

Sam Harris speaks with James Fadiman about the psychedelic experience. They discuss who should and shouldn’t take psychedelics, set and setting, the role of a guide, the effects of microdosing, the difference between MDMA and true psychedelics, “good” and “bad” trips, the power of thought, the fiction of a unified self, changing states of self, compassion, and other topics.

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