Philosophy and classic psychedelics: A review of some emerging themes
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 21, 2022
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly serotonergic compounds, are profoundly reshaping our understanding of consciousness, prompting deep philosophical inquiry. Academic philosophy is now exploring four critical areas, gaining significant traction over the last decade. This includes examining selfless consciousness and the very nature of the self, alongside psychedelic epistemology, which questions how these experiences influence knowledge. Ethical considerations for their appropriate use are also paramount. Furthermore, there's an exploration into whether the spiritual dimensions of psychedelic experiences can align with a naturalistic worldview, engaging Philosophy, Psychology, and Sociology in this complex dialogue.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic (or “ classic” ) psychedelics have struck many researchers as raising significant philosophical questions that, until recently, were largely unexplored by academic philosophers. This paper provides an overview of four emerging lines of research at the intersection of academic philosophy and psychedelic science that have gained considerable traction in the last decade: selfless consciousness, psychedelic epistemology, psychedelic ethics, and spiritual/religious naturalism. In this paper, we highlight philosophical questions concerning (i) psychedelics, self-consciousness, and phenomenal consciousness, (ii) the epistemic profile of the psychedelic experience; (iii) ethical concerns about the appropriate use of psychedelics; and (iv) whether spiritual or religious dimensions of psychedelic use are compatible with a naturalistic worldview.