Shifting Beliefs: How Psychedelics Influence Our Perception of Reality

Psychedelics have been known to induce profound changes in people's perception of reality. But can they alter one's metaphysical beliefs as well? A 2021 study, “Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs”, explored this very question. The researchers used a large sample derived from prospective online surveying to determine whether beliefs concerning the nature of reality, consciousness, and free-will change after psychedelic use.

The results revealed that there were significant shifts away from 'physicalist' or 'materialist' views and towards panpsychism and fatalism after psychedelic use. Physicalism and materialism are philosophical positions that hold that the world is entirely physical or material, and that everything that exists can be explained in terms of physical matter and physical laws. In contrast, panpsychism is the idea that everything in the universe has a form of consciousness, while fatalism is the belief that events are predetermined and inevitable.

The belief-shifts towards panpsychism and fatalism persisted for at least 6 months after psychedelic use, and were positively correlated with the extent of past psychedelic use and improved mental health outcomes. The study also found that the belief-shifts were moderated by impressionability at baseline and mediated by perceived emotional synchrony with others during the psychedelic experience.

The observed belief-shifts post-psychedelic-use were supported by data from an independent controlled clinical trial. Together, these findings suggest that psychedelic-use may causally influence metaphysical beliefs and shift them away from 'hard materialism'.

These results raise interesting questions about the nature of reality and the role of consciousness. Do psychedelic experiences open our minds to a more profound understanding of the universe and our place in it? Can they help us move away from limiting beliefs about the world and ourselves? What do you think about the potential of psychedelics to alter our metaphysical beliefs?

References

Carhart-Harris, R. L., Roseman, L., Bolstridge, M., Demetriou, L., Pannekoek, J. N., Wall, M. B., ... & Leech, R. (2021). Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs and enhance feeling of oneness with the universe. Scientific reports, 11(1), 1-13.

Disclaimer

Neuro-psychedelic does not encourage the recreational use of psychedelics. While research has shown promising results for the therapeutic use of psychedelics, they are powerful, mind-altering substances that should only be used in a safe setting. If you choose to use psychedelics, it is imperative that you educate yourself about their effects, potential risks, and how to reduce harm. This includes careful preparation, working with a trusted and experienced guide, and taking the necessary precautions to ensure your physical and mental safety.