Drugs, Religion, and Mystical Experiences

3 Units

This class examines the relationship between drugs, religion/ religious traditions, and mystical experiences. While many religious traditions prohibit the use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, many advocate the use of substances to achieve desired cognitive states, for spiritual or even medical/ therapeutic purposes. The class will look at several case studies, scientific papers, and philosophical monographs that pertain to, or provoke, these complexities. In this way we will problematize the categories "drug," "religion," and "mystical experience." We will look at cases from Asia, South America, and Mexico. Counts as a Human Diversity & Commonality course. Counts as a Understanding Global Perspectives course.