Psychedelics

People from cultures on every continent on earth have ingested psychoactive mushrooms and plants for millennia to experience altered states of consciousness. Despite the problematic stigmas associated with the word "psychedelics," there has been a recent resurgence of interest in these compounds as therapeutic agents to treat alcoholism, anxiety, depression, drug addiction and PTSD. In this course, students will explore the use of psychedelics from numerous cultural, religious, and economic perspectives including how these sacred plants and fungi have been distributed, celebrated, misused, weaponized and commodified. Readings from the scientific literature and popular culture, expert guest lectures, panels and seminar discussions will examine questions such as: What are the biologically active compounds in psychedelics and how do they interact with our brains to change perception? What current laws and policies govern the use of psychedelics? What are the ethical implications of psychedelic medicalization? Can scientists create psilocybin derivatives that give the long-lasting beneficial effects without the visions? Should psychedelic compounds from fungi and plants be patented?

This class will be taught as an online offering. To be successful in this program, students will need access to reliable high-speed internet and a computer. Modalities of learning will include readings, video lectures, open-book quizzes, seminar discussions and individual library research projects. Students can expect to spend two hours of synchronous class time, on Zoom, and approximately eight to ten hours a week on asynchronous work completing various assignments using Canvas and scientific search engines. 

This is one of four courses that comprise the Mycology Certificate. Students in the certificate program with less experience in mycology are encouraged to take the Fungi for Human Health and the Environment elective for a broader exploration of topics. Courses can be taken in any order.