Benjamin Breen

Benjamin Breen, an associate professor of history at UC Santa Cruz and author of "Tripping on Utopia," dives into the intriguing connections between Margaret Mead, psychedelic drugs, and concepts of utopia. He discusses Mead's pioneering work in social anthropology, her collaborations with Gregory Bateson, and how their ideas shaped societal views on psychedelics. Breen also explores the moral complexities faced by scientists during the Cold War and examines the potential of psychedelics for enhancing creativity and consciousness.

Discover the intriguing connections between Margaret Mead, psychedelics, and the CIA during the Cold War era. Uncover the intertwining history of narco synthesis, indigenous psychedelics, and therapeutic hypnosis. Explore the controversial MKUltra program and the use of LSD for intelligence work. Reflect on the resurgence of psychedelic research and therapy, and the potential societal impact of these substances.

Professor Benjamin Breen discusses the intersecting histories of psychedelics and AI research. They explore end of history narratives, transformative technological change, techno-utopianism, and the importance of historical context in understanding the AI landscape.