Margaret Mead, a prominent 20th-century scientist, was not only renowned for her work but also played a role in the early days of psychedelic research. In an excerpt from the book Tripping on Utopia, we discover Mead’s involvement in LSD experiments, which took place when she returned from studying an apocalyptic religious movement known as the Noise on the remote island of Manus. Mead’s interest in the Noise stemmed from her belief that it was a prelude to new cultural forms, reflecting the rapid changes of the 20th century—the movement, in her eyes, held potential for future cultural adaptations.
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Mead believed that all human societies needed to adapt to change to survive, and she thought that psychedelics might play a role in this. She received information about psychedelics from Dr. Harold Abramson, including the positive effect of LSD on anxiety. Mead, in a committed relationship with fellow anthropologist Rhoda Métraux, found great interest in the potential of LSD to accelerate global cultural adaption, considering it as a shortcut to steer society away from mysticism and escapism.
Had Mead publicly supported psychedelics in the mid-1950s, the course of history might have been different. She was immensely popular at the time and could have influenced the public perception of psychedelics. Her ability to blend a call to action with optimism had attracted many, including a young Carl Sagan, who found her work inspiring.
Mead’s interest in psychedelics led her to conduct extensive research and experiments. She became involved in LSD trials and interacted with individuals who had participated in early experiments, gaining insights into the transformative potential of psychedelics. Mead’s investigations positioned her at the forefront of psychedelic exploration. However, her involvement raised concerns about the possible implications and societal response to psychedelics.
Mead’s personal and professional life became entangled with the complexities of the time. Her decision to postpone her planned LSD trip reflected the changing landscape. With growing concerns about the potential consequences and her personal life under scrutiny, Mead made the decision to prioritize her privacy and stability.
Mead’s groundbreaking work involved a delicate balance between professional aspirations and personal challenges. Her bisexuality and the fear of potential exposure led her to adopt a conservative approach, aligning with the norm to maintain stability in her life.
Mead’s internal struggles and evolving personal dynamics influenced her decision regarding psychedelics. The shifting social and political landscape, coupled with her desire for privacy, guided her choice to refrain from pursuing her interest in LSD. In the end, Mead chose stability and privacy over the potential risks associated with psychedelics, marking a significant turning point in the history of psychedelic science.
Excerpted from the book Tripping on Utopia: Margaret Mead, the Cold War, and the Troubled Birth of Psychedelic Science. Copyright © 2024 by Benjamin Breen. Reprinted with permission of Grand Central Publishing. All rights reserved.
