Stephen J. Bright
Entheogens Versus Drugs of Dependence: Deciphering the Differences
It is an unfortunate reality that most efforts to engage with the public regarding entheogens will raise concerns about drug abuse and addiction. A common response to such concerns is “these substances are non-addictive”. But what does this actually mean? Is there any such thing as a non-addictive substance given that individuals can become addicted to substances as apparently inert as chalk? This lecture aims to provide participants with an understanding of the etymology of the term addiction and the various theories of addiction. In doing so, I will propose that while there is a small chance that some individuals may ‘abuse’ entheogens, individuals cannot become addicted to these substances. Similarly, while there is the potential for some individuals to develop some degree of psychological dependence to entheogens, individuals cannot develop a physiological dependence to most of these substances.
Stephen Bright is a Psychologist who has worked in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) field for the past 8 years. He is a PhD candidate at Curtin University, where he has also coordinated the Addiction Studies program for the past 5 years. In addition, he has recently commenced teaching within Chisholm’s Bachelor degree in AOD. Stephen has published papers on topics including: alcohol and ageing, the trans-theoretical model, psychotherapy, and drug legislation. He has recently completed a Research Fellowship with the Victorian Department of Health.