The Role of Psychedelics in the Development of Human Religious Practices

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This brief brings about a critical perspective on the role of psychedelics in the development of human spirituality. Relying on various disciplines such as classical studies, archaeology, ethnobotany, and archeochemistry, this book outlines compelling pieces of evidence that support the historical use of psychedelics in religious rituals. It further discusses how psychedelics trigger profound spiritual experiences that are significant enough to justify their ritualistic use, and provides a neuroscientific approach to psychedelic pharmacodynamics, i.e. the effect of psychedelics on the brain. It is an important read for scholars of religion and spirituality interested in the intersection of neuroscience, religion and consciousness.

The Role of Psychedelics in the Development of Human Religious Practices explores how mind-altering substances have shaped humanity’s search for the sacred. Drawing on neuroscience, archaeology, ethnopharmacology, and art history, Denis Pavăl offers an accessible, balanced synthesis of a rapidly evolving field. This Brief examines the phenomenology and neuropharmacology of psychedelic experiences, evaluates claims about their historical use in ritual and religion, and addresses the current psychedelic renaissance. Challenging both uncritical enthusiasm and outright skepticism, it provides a concise, evidence-based guide for researchers, clinicians, students, and readers interested in consciousness, spirituality, and the origins of religious practice across cultures worldwide.

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Denis Pavăl

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