Turn On, Tune In, Drop In: Psychedelics, Creativity and Entrepreneurship

Psychedelics have a long history of use, with early research into their benefits slowing after LSD and psilocybin became illegal street drugs in the 1960s. A recent trend of microdosing, especially among entrepreneurs and Silicon Valley engineers, has revived interest. This paper reviews the history of psychedelics, their potential to enhance creativity and openness for entrepreneurs, and suggests how the topic might be addressed in an entrepreneurship classroom.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There is a long history of psychedelic use throughout history. A great deal of research was conducted on the possible benefits of psychedelics until LSD and psilocybin became street drugs in the 1960s with reported negative effects. Declared illegal in the late 1960s, research slowed on the benefits of such drugs. A new version of the “street” use of psychedelics has emerged in the form of microsoding, particularly by entrepreneurs and Silicon Valley engineers. This paper reviews the history of psychedelics, possible benefits for creativity and openness for entrepreneurs, and how the issue should be addressed in an entrepreneurship classroom.