Dr. Valentina Wasson: Questioning what we think we know about the foundations of psychedelic science
Journal of Evolutionary Psychology – September 21, 2020
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A critical oversight in psychedelic history is the under-recognition of key figures like Dr. Valentina Pavlovna Wasson, a vital early contributor to Western psychedelic science. This highlights how a lack of equity and diversity can skew historical narratives. To resist perpetuating social inequalities, a critical, intersectional lens must examine foundational assumptions in psychedelic studies, questioning what we think we know. This approach fosters a more just and epistemologically sound understanding, ensuring diverse academic contributions are properly acknowledged.
Abstract
Abstract Equity and diversity are essential to the development of inclusive psychedelic research. However, oversights and misattributions are common, particularly when it comes to accounts of important psychedelic moments and key figures. Dr. Valentina Pavlovna Wasson is an important early contributor to the growth of Western psychedelic science but remains under-recognized. Psychedelic researchers must continue to address the glaring need to ask questions and examine the foundations of what we think we know about psychedelic studies—to question our assumptions with a critical and intersectional eye to resist replicating social and cultural inequalities in psychedelic research and history.