Memory

Summary

Some memory recollections may be classified as psychedelic experiences, occurring spontaneously, during meditation, or after consuming psychedelics. The chapter discusses the relationship between mindfulness and memory, proposing a definition of mindfulness related to psychedelic experiences. While it suggests that meditation and psychedelics can uncover hidden memories, the evidence is not definitive. A key area for future research is verifying the accuracy of memories revealed during psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explores the idea that some memory recollections count as psychedelic experiences and that they can occur spontaneously, during and after meditation, and as a result of consuming psychedelic substances. The chapter also introduces the concept of mindfulness and unpacks the deep and important connection between mindfulness and memory. This analysis of mindfulness is then used for formulating a definition of mindfulness in terms of psychedelic space, as well as one in terms of mindfulness being the opposite of a psychecryptic (mind-concealing) state. The chapter then reviews the evidence that meditation and psychedelics can reveal hidden memories, arguing that while the evidence supports these hypotheses, the empirical research is not yet definitive. In particular, it is proposed that empirically verifying the accuracy of memories revealed during psychedelic-assisted therapy is a particularly salient way of testing the hypothesis that psychedelics are, indeed, psychedelic.