There are no bad drugs. There's simply stupid people who don't know how to use them
There are no bad drugs. There's simply stupid people who don't know how to use them
Timothy Leary, a psychologist and advocate for the use of psychedelic drugs, famously said, "There are no bad drugs. There's simply stupid people who don't know how to use them." This statement encapsulates Leary's belief that the potential benefits of drugs like LSD and psilocybin outweigh any potential risks when used responsibly and with intention.Leary was a controversial figure in the 1960s and 1970s, advocating for the use of psychedelic drugs as a means of expanding consciousness and exploring the inner workings of the mind. He believed that these substances had the potential to unlock hidden truths and insights that could lead to personal growth and spiritual enlightenment.
However, Leary's message was often misunderstood and misinterpreted by the general public, leading to widespread fear and backlash against psychedelic drugs. Many people viewed them as dangerous and harmful substances that could lead to addiction, psychosis, or even death.
But Leary argued that it was not the drugs themselves that were inherently bad, but rather the way in which they were used. He believed that when used in a controlled and intentional manner, psychedelic drugs could be powerful tools for self-exploration and personal transformation.
Leary's own experiments with LSD and psilocybin led him to develop the concept of set and setting, which emphasized the importance of mindset and environment in shaping the psychedelic experience. He believed that a positive mindset and a supportive environment were crucial for ensuring a safe and beneficial trip.