Acid Test

Acid Test chronicles the history of psychedelic drug research and its modern renaissance, focusing on MDMA and its potential therapeutic uses. The narrative follows three central figures: a marine veteran struggling with PTSD, a psychotherapist working with terminal patients, and Rick Doblin, founder of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). The book traces the evolution of psychedelic research from the 1950s through its criminalization in the 1970s to its re-emergence in modern clinical trials. Shroder presents the scientific, political, and cultural forces that shaped society's relationship with these substances. Through firsthand accounts and extensive research, Shroder documents the efforts to legitimize psychedelic-assisted therapy within the medical establishment. The parallel stories demonstrate the intersection of personal healing, scientific inquiry, and drug policy reform. The work raises questions about consciousness, healing, and the boundaries between illegal drugs and medicine. Through its examination of psychedelic therapy, the book challenges conventional approaches to mental health treatment and trauma recovery.

Readers describe this book as an engaging chronicle of psychedelic therapy's history and current research. Many note it strikes a good balance between scientific evidence, personal stories, and historical context. Liked: - Clear explanations of complex research and regulations - Compelling patient narratives, especially veterans with PTSD - Objective tone when discussing controversial topics - Thorough coverage of key figures like Rick Doblin and Michael Mithoefer Disliked: - Some sections on policy/bureaucracy drag - A few readers wanted more detail on the actual therapy sessions - Limited coverage of potential risks and downsides Ratings: Goodreads: 4.26/5 (800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (240+ ratings) "This book changed how I view psychedelic medicine," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "The veterans' stories were heartbreaking but hopeful," noted another on Goodreads. Some readers mentioned it helped them understand the scientific basis behind psychedelic therapy while avoiding sensationalism.

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🔬 Author Tom Shroder's grandfather was a renowned psychologist who worked with Sigmund Freud and pioneered the use of LSD in psychotherapy during the 1950s. 🎖️ The book features MDMA-assisted therapy sessions with Iraq War veteran Nicholas Blackston, whose successful treatment helped pave the way for FDA approval of MDMA therapy trials for PTSD. 🏆 Acid Test won the 2015 American Society of Journalists and Authors Award for Outstanding Book (general nonfiction category). 🔑 Rick Doblin, a key figure in the book, founded MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) from his home in 1986 with just $10,000 in personal savings. 🌟 The book's publication in 2014 coincided with the first FDA-approved Phase 2 clinical trials of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, marking a historic shift in psychedelic research.