Hallucinogens?

Question

Can mind-altering drugs be used as a philosophical tool? Are the drugs effects a mere biproduct of the chemicals they contain, or can it be used as philosophical catalysts?

Answer 1

Turing raises some interesting possibilities in this arena, albeit indirectly.

Among many other contributions, Turing is the inventor of the concept called (appropriately enough) a 'Turing Machine'. A Turing Machine is really nothing more than a computer. A very, very simple one. It is because of this simplicity that it has such broad implications.

All a Turing Machine requires is a memory and a means of acting on that memory systematically. It doesn't matter what the system is, not exactly how the memory is recorded. Thus, pretty much all computers are kinds of Turing Machines, and likely even a human mind.

The most interesting thing about Turing Machines, however, is that it can be demonstrated that - given enough time - any Turing Machine can simulate the operation of any other Turing Machine. So even if it cannot do so in real-time, a computer can theoretically be fashioned that can produce identical output to a human brain, and further any particular human brain can produce identical output to any other one.

Mind-affecting drugs essentially do this chemically. They make your brain operate like another brain that is not yours by altering the equipment. The effect is (mostly) temporary, so a person might use a variety of different drugs and discover a variety of different ways of thinking.

But if your mind IS a Turing Machine, then this is all completely unnecessary. The only thing preventing you from simulating other thought-modes right now is that you lack the proper 'programming' to do so. There is no reason why this must remain the case. Consider the example of some spouses, best friends, or close family members: it is not unusual for one to be able to say what the other is thinking and even finish the other's sentances. They have developed simulation capability on a limited basis.

I think it's reasonable to suggest that any mind-state that a drug could facilitate (and far, far more) might be achieved just as well on your own without a drug. All it would take is effort and practice. Such an ability would be FAR more useful to exploring new mind-states because of unlimited variety, ease of use, and control. None of which you are likely to get from a drug.

So yes, some drugs may help you explore new mind-states. But this is a very weak way to do such things. Expand yourself and gain new abilities instead of becoming dependant on the abilities of others. That is the very essense of philosophy itself!

Answer 2

The experiences on drugs can enlighten your non-drugged mind, e.g. the fact that we can believe something so fully in terms of a hallucination, can shine light on questions such as 'Is it definite that we are really here? How do we know for sure?'

Thoughts that you actually think whilst on drugs are usually a load of nonsense though! But they seem good at the time...

Answer 3

Its risky to do this because you may start to become dependent upon them to give you insights to your philosophical theories. That's all I have to say about it... do what you will. While for some they may have been helpful, far more have been consumed.

And yes, I have to agree with what our friend above me said. It may be difficult to impossible to sort the truth from the lies. Good point.

I'd like to suggest a safe alternative though: Meditation.

Answer 4

The problem is the altering part. They make the mind a liar.

Answer 5

it opens up to parts of conciousness that you were not aware of and you will find new answer to these becase you thinking outside of the box. the "box" meaning sobriety.

Answer 6

lol you'll think of all kinds of weird $hit on that stuff some have a religious experience on the stuff lol

Answer 7

they worked for Hunter S Thompson and they worked for Teddy Roosevelt and they are working ON me

Answer 8

yes, but there is a price.