Norman Ohler, author of 'Tripped: Nazi Germany, the CIA, and the Dawn of the Psychedelic Age', discusses the history of drugs in Nazi Germany and the CIA's involvement with LSD. He shares his personal interest in drugs and the different types of drugs, as well as the cultural differences between Germany and the US. Ohler also talks about his father's use of LSD to help his mother with Alzheimer's and the legal issues they faced. The conversation delves into the CIA's experimentation with LSD and the manipulation of individuals, as well as Ohler's research process and the challenges of accessing archives. The conversation explores the discovery of LSD and its potential as a medicine, as well as the political and societal implications surrounding its use. It delves into the history of LSD, including its connection to Nazi Germany and the CIA. The discussion highlights the need for more research and understanding of psychedelics, and the potential benefits they may have in treating mental health conditions. The conversation also touches on the importance of set and setting when taking psychedelics, and the need for responsible use.

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Norman’s Links
https://www.normanohler.de
Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of the Guest

01:48 Drug Use in Nazi Germany and the Third Reich

06:38 Cultural Attitudes Towards Drugs in Germany and the US

09:36 LSD as a Medicine and its Potential Benefits

13:04 Legal Issues and Personal Use of LSD

16:16 The CIA's Experimentation with LSD and Manipulation

23:54 The Discovery of LSD and Its Potential as a Medicine

26:02 LSD's Connection to Nazi Germany and the CIA

29:05 The Need for More Research and Understanding of Psychedelics

31:19 The Importance of Set and Setting in Psychedelic Experiences

37:22 Responsible Use of Psychedelics

Takeaways

Drugs have always been a part of human history and society, and it is important to understand their effects and potential benefits.

The cultural attitudes towards drugs differ between Germany and the US, with Germany being more conservative and less informed about psychedelics.

LSD was initially developed as a medicine by a Swiss pharmaceutical company, and its potential therapeutic uses are still being explored.

The CIA's involvement with LSD was driven by the fear of its use as a truth serum and the desire to manipulate individuals.

Accessing archives and original sources is crucial for accurate historical research, but it can be challenging to find specific information. LSD was discovered by Albert Hoffman and initially developed by the pharmaceutical company Sandoz as a potential stimulant for the mind.

The discovery of LSD led to research on its potential therapeutic benefits, including its use in treating depression and other mental health conditions.

The political and societal climate of the time, including Nazi Germany and the Cold War, influenced the perception and regulation of LSD.

There is a need for more research and understanding of psychedelics, including their potential benefits and risks, in order to make informed decisions about their use.

Set and setting, as well as responsible use, are important factors to consider when taking psychedelics.