The podcast explores the connection between intoxication and philosophy, discussing the theory that Western philosophy originated from moments of intoxication. It delves into the potential influence of psychedelic experiences on philosophers' metaphysical worldview and the seductive nature of intoxication in American society. The chapter also explores the negative perception of substance use in Western society and the complexities of freedom and autonomy.
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Hart's Drug Use
Carl Hart, a Harvard neuroscientist, uses drugs like heroin recreationally.
He argues the hard/soft drug distinction is political, not scientific.
insights INSIGHT
Renewed Interest
Scientists are now exploring the potential benefits of drugs, especially psychedelics.
Philosophers have long discussed drug and alcohol use.
insights INSIGHT
Ancient Greek Ethics
Ancient Greeks used drinking as a way to explore ethical concerns.
They questioned how one's relationship to drinking showed their character.
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Drunks, like children, always tell the truth. And after a night (or day) of drinking, everyone turns into a professional philosopher! What is it about intoxication that incites us to philosophize, to “wax poetic”? In episode 41, David and Ellie explore the theme of intoxication all the way from the wine-filled feasts of the ancient Greeks to contemporary debates about psychedelic drugs. They look at the fascinating “ergot hypothesis,” which holds that famous philosophers such as Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle came up with their most important metaphysical insights while tripping on an ancient psychedelic called “ergot.” And they consider what experiences of intoxication can teach us about power, privilege, and freedom.
Works Discussed
Carl Hart, Drug Use for Grown-Ups: Chasing Liberty in the Land of Fear Plato, The Symposium R. Gordon Wasson, Albert Hofmann, and Carl A. P. Ruck, The Road to Eleusis: Unveiling the Secret of the Mysteries Michael Pollan, How to Change Your Mind Evgenia Fotiou "The globalization of ayahuasca shamanism and the erasure of indigenous shamanism" Marty Roth, Drunk the Night Before: An Anatomy of Intoxication Jean-Luc Nancy, Intoxication Immanuel Kant, The Metaphysics of Morals Maggie Nelson, On Freedom Jacques Derrida, Plato’s Pharmacy
Overthink