Humans may be more tolerant of non-pharmacological states that rival psychedelic ones.
There is a bias against drug-induced bad trips.
Similar psychological states achieved through natural means may be more acceptable.
Exogenous drugs are often prejudiced against, but there are alternative ways to achieve drug-like effects.
Classical psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and DMT have no lethal dose or risk of addiction.
Laurie's former student and friend, Dr. Maya Shankar, has a Pushkin podcast we love called A Slight Change of Plans. If you like The Happiness Lab, then this show is right up your alley. In this episode, Maya and author Michael Pollan discuss the fascinating science of psychedelics and how they have the power to transform our minds and improve our mental health. You’ll also get a glimpse into Michael’s personal experience with psychedelic trips and how they unlocked a singular kind of joy within him. Plus, you'll hear him try and convince scaredy-cat Maya to give them a try.