What we’re about
Psychedelics have been used for thousands of years within many indigenous societies, integrated into cultural, religious, and spiritual frameworks. These frameworks helped individuals interpret their experiences in ways aligned with communal values and beliefs. This both prepared participants for the experience but also supported them in integrating the insights afterwards.
But in today’s Western society, such traditional frameworks are largely absent. Psychedelic experiences are often experienced individually or in clinical settings, detached from the communal and spiritual context that once accompanied them. This lack of shared cultural support raises questions about how individuals can meaningfully process and integrate such powerful experiences without the interpretive and integrative practices that have historically accompanied them.
More and more people are having, or are interested in having, conscious altering experiences with psychedelics. But how do we make sense of psychedelics within our moment in time and place?
Through open, respectful and playful conversation we aim to think how psychedelics might help us live better in and with the world as individuals, a community and as a species.
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How might we learn to be more creative and playful?
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What new perspectives are afforded by the experience, and might we integrate those perspectives in a meaningful way?
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How should we think of psychedelics; as tools, medicine or technologies?
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What is the veracity of the insights?
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How might they help us navigate and make sense of our increasingly fragmented and disorientating world?
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What insights from philosophical traditions can help us make sense?
This group is suitable and open to anyone who has had, is interested in having, or is simply curious about, the psychedelic experience. In a space free of judgement and stigma, participants can share their own thoughts and experiences, ask questions or just listen in.
If you have any questions about the group, feel free to get in touch!
Disclaimer:
It is important to note that this meet-up group is for educational purposes only and is not intended to encourage or condone the use of psychedelic substances. While we will be discussing the history, culture, and potential therapeutic uses of psychedelics, we do not promote the use of these substances. Additionally, this group does not intend to provide medical, legal or other advice.
About the group host:
Damien Rudd is a transdisciplinary researcher and holds a PhD from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. His theory and practice explore how humans can reimagine their existence on this planet, particularly in response to the current ecological and climatic crises. His interests include ecological theory, systems and cybernetics, social transformation, nonhuman agency, speculative fiction, psychedelics and transspecies collaboration. He is currently based in Brussels, Belgium.
