Acta Sociologica

Narratives of the mystical among users of psychedelics

Drawing on interviews with 50 psychedelic users, this study finds that contemporary psychedelic “mystical” experiences conform to archetypal narratives characterised by transcendence of time and space, intense euphoria and a felt oneness with a larger whole. These archetypal patterns are shaped by culturally and politically specific storylines, notably environmental motifs of unity with plants and animals and a perceived duty to protect nature.

Published

January 11, 2021

Journal

Acta Sociologica

Authors

Pedersen, W., Copes, H., Gashi, L.