Psychedelics and the brain and The impact of psychoactive substances on society - Dual Talk
Event details
Drug Science Society Lectures
Join us for an insightful evening exploring the interdisciplinary field of psychedelics, from their neuroscience to how their use has shaped culture and philosophy. The evening will feature two academic talks by our committee's president and secretary, Ben Clayden and Jak Wright. Each talk will last around 30 minutes with a Q&A session afterwards.
TALK DESCRIPTIONS
Talk 1: Psychedelics and The Brain: From Neurons to Networks with Ben Clayden
How do psychedelics alter our perception, sense of self and outlook on life? In order to understand the complex aetiology of the psychedelic experience, we must know how psychedelics act at the level of proteins, cells and brain systems. Recent advances in electrophysiology and neuroimaging have begun to elucidate the mechanisms behind the effects of these mysterious molecules. Join us for a journey into how psychedelic modulation at the cellular level changes how regions and networks of the brain communicate and work, leading to profound changes in perception, sense of self and mental health.
Talk 2: The Impact of Psychoactive Substances in Human Societies Throughout Time with Jak Wright
From the modern era of prohibition to ancient use of sacraments in religious celebrations, humans have always had a complex relationship with drugs. They have impacted the course of our history, and the development of our cultures, arts, knowledge and our beliefs. This talk will showcase the varied effects that psychoactive substances, ranging from mind-expanding psychedelics, to productivity-boosting stimulants, and relaxing herbs like Chamomile, have had on many different spheres of our civilisation, and discuss what we can learn from these effects.
About the speakers
Ben Clayden is an Msci student studying Natural Sciences specialising in Neuroscience at the University of York. He has been the president of the University of York Drug Science Society for 3 years, and is the co-chair for the Drug Science Student Society Network, the largest community of students interested in drug science, drug policy and harm reduction in the UK. He is also the creator of the Psychedelic Frontiers podcast, where he produces episodes on the neuroscience, pharmacology and medical applications of psychedelic and psychoactive compounds with leading academics.
Jak Wright is a 3rd year undergraduate studying Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of York. Previously the York Drug Science Society’s Philosopher Officer, this year he is the Secretary. Jak’s dissertation project is in the field of the philosophy of Consciousness, at the intersection between his interests for philosophy and drug science.
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