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First published April 1988
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Drug Based Religions and Contemporary Drug Taking

Thomas LyttleView all authors and affiliations
Volume 18, Issue 2
https://doi.org/10.1177/002204268801800212

Abstract

Contemporary drug taking and giving among the general populace are multi-level phenomena involving highly vicarious origins, needs and/or other supporting social, psychological or spiritual functions.
Within this, a specific subgroup has emerged promoting a variety of (drug-based) religions, spiritual doctrines or ethical systems.
Dividing such drug-based organizations into two categories of moral/ethical posture—the situational and the iconic/deterministic—a review of each catechism, ethical base and (when applicable) ritual practice is reviewed and annotated.

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Biographies

Thomas Lyttle is an author and publisher in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is the founder and publisher of Psychedelic Monographs and Essays, a cross-discipline journal concerned with ongoing hallucinogenic drug research. Readers wishing further information concerning PM&E, or other research projects involving this subject in particular, should contact Mr. Lyttle at 624 Northeast 12th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
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