What Is in a Name? The Many Meanings of "Psychedelic".
Kelley C O'Donnell, Daniel E. Roberts, Terence H. W. Ching, Gianni Glick, Noam Goldway, Natalie Gukasyan, Jamila Hokansen, Benjamin Kelmendi, Stephen Ross, Mary E. Yaden, Christopher Pittenger
Psychedelic Med (New Rochelle) December 13, 2023 DOI: 10.1089/psymed.2023.0011 (opens in new tab) via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe term 'psychedelic' carries multiple, sometimes conflicting, meanings across different contexts—scientific, cultural, legal, and historical. This ambiguity can hinder clear communication and slow research progress by creating misunderstandings among researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and the public. The authors argue that recognizing and clarifying these varied definitions is essential for advancing the field, as precise language helps align expectations, improve study reproducibility, and inform policy decisions. Without shared understanding, efforts to study and apply psychedelics therapeutically risk confusion and fragmentation.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Psychedelic definitions Communication clarity Research progress |
| Citations | 13 |
| Key finding | Argues that the term 'psychedelic' has multiple, often conflicting meanings that complicate research and communication. |
Abstract
What Is in a Name? The Many Meanings of "Psychedelic".