Working with Weirdness: A Response to “Moving Past Mysticism in Psychedelic Science”
Joost J. Breeksema, Michiel van Elk
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science July 16, 2021 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00149 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe authors argue that the concept of mystical experience should remain central to psychedelic science, countering a recent call to abandon it. They emphasize the need to recognize the diversity and strangeness of psychedelic experiences, drawing on a rich tradition and scientific tools for studying mystical-type experiences. These experiences are relevant for understanding the therapeutic effects of psychedelics. The authors also call for greater diversity in both the types of experiences and the participants included in future research.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 69 |
| Key finding | Argues that acknowledging the varieties and weirdness of psychedelic experiences should be central to psychedelic research, and that mystical-type experiences remain relevant for understanding therapeutic effects. |
Abstract
In response to a recent call to rid psychedelic science of the concept of mystical experience, we argue that acknowledging the varieties and weirdness of psychedelic experiences should be at the heart of any research program on this topic. We highlight the rich tradition and scientific tools for studying mystical-type experiences, their relevance for understanding the therapeutic effects of psychedelics, as well as the need for more diversity in the experiences and participants included in this research.