Neuropsychedelia: the revival of hallucinogen research since the decade of the brain
Choice Reviews Online July 23, 2013 DOI: 10.5860/choice.50-7048 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe book examines the history and cultural significance of psychedelic research, arguing that neuropsychopharmacology functions as a spiritual technology. It traces the development of psilocybin from Swiss labs to US research, exploring how experimental psychoses were enacted and how the field oscillates between animality and divinity. The author proposes a 'mystic materialism' that bridges scientific and spiritual perspectives, culminating in fieldwork within perennial philosophy. The work integrates insights from art history, literature, philosophy, and theology to critique materialist assumptions and advocate for a more holistic understanding of psychedelic experiences.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Mysticism Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Materialism Neuropsychopharmacology Divinity |
| Citations | 74 |
| Key finding | Argues that psychedelic research laboratories function as spaces where spiritual and scientific paradigms merge, producing a 'mystic materialism' that reconfigures understandings of consciousness. |
Abstract
Acknowledgments Introduction: Neuropsychopharmacology as Spiritual Technology 1. Psychedelic Revival 2. Swiss Psilocybin and US Dollars 3. The Varieties of Psychedelic Lab Experience 4. Enacting Experimental Psychoses 5. Between Animality and Divinity 6. Mystic Materialism Conclusion: Fieldwork in Perennial Philosophy Notes Bibliography Index