Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out? A Typology of Psychedelic Microdosing as Technologies of the Self

Psychedelic microdosing—taking small, non-intoxicating doses of classic psychedelics to subtly enhance focus—has become a popular practice, especially in work contexts. Drawing on interviews and a cultural-sociological perspective, this study identifies three distinct ways people use microdosing: as a technology to boost self-esteem and control at work, as a self-help tool for personal improvement, and as a means to cultivate a slower, more mindful pace of life. The findings show that substances once associated with 1960s counterculture are now being repurposed for everyday enhancement and well-being.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psychedelic microdosing, or taking small doses of psychedelic substances that do not induce intoxication or altered states but rather subtle outcomes such as increased focus, has quickly become a mass media phenomenon. Many claim microdosing has become the new secret to enhancement in work contexts. Drawing from literature on psychedelic microdosing, technologies of the self, self-identity and the sociology of work and leisure, this study understands microdosing as a technology individuals introduce into their lives to modify themselves for various purposes. We explore the ways in which the 1960s iconic psychedelic drugs, that once offered turning on, tuning in and dropping out, are now finding new uses across different contexts. Taking a cultural-sociological perspective, we examine how individuals use microdoses of classic psychedelic drugs and how they make sense of microdosing in their daily lives. Based on our findings, we identify three different uses of psychedelic microdosing: (1) as technology of self-esteem and control at work, (2) as a self-help technology, and (3) as a technology of ‘slow living’.