The American right has suddenly developed an interest in psychedelic drugs, and there are a few possible explanations for this. Perhaps they believe that these substances can help them gain a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it. Or maybe they think that psychedelics will allow them to tap into previously untapped reservoirs of creativity. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that psychedelics are having a moment on the right side of the political spectrum. And who knows? Maybe this trend will eventually lead to some real progress on drug policy reform. But for now, we can all just sit back and enjoy the show.
Led by the financial and political backing of prominent figures such as Peter Thiel, and Jordan Peterson, and the Mercer Foundation’s generous $1m donation to MAPS for researching MDMA treatment of PTSD in veterans, psychedelic therapeutic approaches are rapidly gaining unprecedented support. By leveraging on their influence from the right side of politics, these individuals have demonstrated a strong belief in its effectiveness as an effective alternative medical therapy.
Although the Mercer family has been known to back extremist right-wing politics and climate change denialism, Maps and other followers of psychedelia are still thankful for their contributions. The Mercers may have come a long way from Woodstock but they remain an important ally in this fight.
Why are conservatives turning to psychedelics?
Undoubtedly, numerous leftists and liberals endorse the medical use of psychedelics. In July, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was successful in passing an amendment to the new $768bn defense spending bill which supported enhanced research into psychedelic treatment for veterans as well as active-duty service members – a move that was also backed by Dan Crenshaw (a navy veteran and Republican representative from Texas). Similarly, Matt Gaetz (Republican representative from Florida) presented a similar proposal.
Psychedelics have often been linked to revolutionary experiments. Now, some researchers are confident that the hypothesis claiming psychedelics can put an end to long-lasting political disputes could be true. In 2018, a small study conducted at Imperial College showed that having one session of psilocybin therapy reduces approval for “authoritarian attitudes”. Could psychedelics then be seen as a possible solution for non-democratic sentiments? Rick Doblin from Maps has gone even further and suggested its use may help solve environmental problems too.
While psychedelics may open one up to new experiences, the possibilities are not solely limited to peace and love. Julius Evola – an Italian philosopher who was revered by both Hitler and Steve Bannon – avidly supported LSD use. In 2021, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas stirred some headlines when he authorized buses filled with migrants en route to New York City, Washington D.C., and Chicago; along with this bill signing came to a declaration that also allowed for research on potential medical benefits of psychedelics as well. Even Steve Bannon is in favor of legalized psychedelic usage.
Professors Brian Pace and Neşe Devenot have noted that psychedelics, far from being exclusively associated with the leftwing, have been embraced by authoritarian forces. For instance, Andrew Anglin – founder of the neo-Nazi website Daily Stormer – had a history of experimenting with psychedelic substances; likewise, 8chan’s creator was motivated by a mushroom experience to create an extremist message board that came to host several mass shooters’ manifestos.
So why is America so invested in these substances? Money, of course. As psychedelics gain traction and make their way into mainstream medicine, there’s the potential for a huge cash boom from patenting new formulations and treatment techniques. This could prove to be another windfall for those looking to capitalize on American investment opportunities.
Could politics be a factor driving the Mercer Foundation’s donation to Maps? It is possible this support was an attempt to minimize war-related damages and ultimately bolster America’s military strength. After all, the defense industry generates more profit than pharmaceuticals, however, men and women are still needed on the ground for these wars. Could conservative psychedelic funding suggest attempts to further perpetuate American conflicts overseas?
So if MDMA can assist those suffering from PTSD, then why are veterans given exclusive priority in a society that has inflicted pain and anguish? What about the trauma of racial inequality, lack of financial security, and police brutality – all exacerbated by right-wing policies backed by billionaires like Mercer?
Psychedelics offer a unique opportunity to Explore the Depths of Our Inner Consciousness
Psychedelics present a unique and highly effective opportunity for people to break free from the confines of self-destructive thought patterns, making way for newfound possibilities and delight. Nonetheless, one must remember that the outcomes of psychoactive drugs are intrinsically linked with their setting. As psychedelic researcher Anthony Bossis states, “one of the biggest problems we have is that our patients are in these situations where they’re already stressed out and worried about things. The last thing you want to do is add some more stress on top of that.”
Therefore, psychedelic drugs may be able to offer insights into solving some of the most pressing issues facing American society today. But we must also address the underlying causes of these problems – which stem from political and economic ideologies perpetuated by the American right. Only then can psychedelic drugs truly be the solution to our current state of democracy.
It is reckless to presume that Rebekah Mercer, Steve Bannon or Greg Abbott could bring about any real change. After all, these are the people who adamantly oppose common healthcare and reject climate change. With their backing, we can anticipate psychedelic treatment for the privileged class as a tool of state authority or an instigator of conspiracies rather than a transformation-based psychedelic initiative. Unless there is universal single-payer healthcare in place, most Americans will not have access to the advantages of psychedelics therapy.
It is foolish to assume that psychedelics will have a positive effect on your mindset if the right wing presents them as an act of kindness or when they are presented in a setting where there is immense inequity.
Burning Man, the symbol of Utopian thought and a playground for Silicon Valley’s wealthiest citizens has caused an environmental apocalypse. Instead of embodying self-discovery, it leads to further solipsism due to whom you surround yourself with. The illusion of transcendence can be twisted into an excuse for selfishness or even cruelty – leaving behind thousands of abandoned bicycles in its wake and 12-hour traffic jams from burning fossil fuels at unprecedented levels.
Making Psychedelic Therapies Accessible for Everyone in Need
Psychedelic therapies should be an accessible form of care for all in need, not only to those privileged with wealth, power and influence. The psychedelic community frequently discusses the importance of “integration” to meaningfully process one’s trip; however, this concept is commonly restricted to individual needs alone. We must strive for a broader understanding that emphasizes integration within our society as well.
If we are to experience the full benefits of psychedelics, then we must construct a social vision that stands for justice and equity. We must reject any notion of sacrificing human life for military spending or empire-building. Every person is deserving of respect regardless of their race, nationality, religion, gender identity, or class status – this should be embedded into our vision as well.
The power of psychedelics should not be underestimated, and we must remain mindful that if it falls into the wrong hands, there can be serious consequences. Thus, psychedelic advocates must work towards social justice as well as educate society on its potential healing powers. We cannot afford to ignore these issues and let our mission become limited by political motivations or interests.
Whether psychedelic drugs can solve big political issues remains to be seen. But given the growing interest on the right, it will be exciting to watch this psychedelic revolution unfold. Perhaps psychedelic enthusiasts will be able to create a new political movement that is more open and inclusive than what we have seen in the past. Only time will tell. For now, let’s sit back and enjoy the psychedelic ride!
