Why it matters:
The University of California, Berkeley’s Center for the Science of Psychedelics has launched a free online course called “Psychedelics and the Mind.” The course aims to educate the public about the history and science of psychedelics and is made possible by a $5 million grant from the Steve and Alexandra Cohen Foundation.
What they are saying:
Imran Khan, the executive director of the Center, praised the course, calling it “amazing” and stating that it is a high-quality multimedia and interactive online version of a class previously taught by David Presti, one of the founders of the Berkeley Center. Khan also highlighted the course’s uniqueness and its potential to serve as a baseline for future courses on the medical side of psychedelics and their implications for specific communities.
The big picture:
The launch of this online course marks the continued expansion of the Center for the Science of Psychedelics, which was established in 2020. It comes at a time when there is growing interest and support for psychedelic research and therapy, with a majority of Americans expressing support for regulated therapeutic access to psychedelics.
What to watch:
It will be interesting to see the impact and reach of this free online course, as well as any future courses that may be launched by the Center. As psychedelic research and therapy gain more attention and acceptance, it will be important to continue educating the public and addressing their hopes and fears regarding these substances.
My take:
The launch of this online course is a significant step in increasing access to education about psychedelics. By making it freely available, the Center for the Science of Psychedelics is helping to bridge the gap between research and public understanding. This course has the potential to promote more informed discussions and decisions regarding psychedelics, leading to further advancements in the field.
