80. The Impact of Drugs on History, Society & Health: From Nazis to Neurology with Norman Ohler
This week on The Psychedelic Mom, Norman Ohler shares about his personal exploration of psychedelics, his writings on the topic, and his mother's Alzheimer's treatment with LSD. Norman and Michaela discuss the untold history of drugs in Nazi Germany, the historical use of drugs in warfare, the influence of psychedelics on societal and cultural shifts, and the complexities of global drug policy stemming from historical figures such as Harry J. Anslinger, long time US Commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics. The conversation also navigates through topics such as the societal implications of drug legalization, the media’s evolving perspective on psychedelics, and the intricate relationship between psychedelics, empathy, and personal growth. Norman’s reflections on his upcoming book, 'The Magic Mountain', weave in a contemplation of personal relationship dynamics and the state of the world, illustrating the profound and potentially paradoxical effects psychedelic exploration can have on both individual lives and society at large.