Paranthropology - Vol 2 No 2 - 2011 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 2
Date: April 2011
Publisher: Paranthropology
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 2044-9216

This issue of Paranthropology, titled "Psi and the Psychedelic Experience," delves into the complex relationship between altered states of consciousness induced by psychedelic substances and the manifestation of psi phenomena. The editorial highlights the growing interest in this field, evidenced by a large multidisciplinary conference on psychedelic consciousness held at the University of Kent.

Featured Articles and Content

"Adventures in a Yorkshire Landscape" by Andy Roberts

Roberts recounts a personal LSD-fueled experience in 1974 where a tarot reading, particularly the Death card, seemed to presage a tragic event. The group's trip coincided with witnessing a police response to a fatal motorbike accident, leading to a profound, albeit subjective, interpretation of the tarot's predictive power and the nature of altered states.

"Connecting, Diverging and Reconnecting: Putting the Psi Back in Psychedelic Research" by David Luke

This Presidential Address delivered at the Parapsychological Association convention explores the historical and potential links between parapsychology and psychedelic research. Luke argues for a multidisciplinary approach, integrating fields like anthropology, archaeology, ethnobotany, neurobiology, and psychopharmacology. He traces the origins of psi to ancient practices like the oracles of Delphi and discusses the use of various psychedelic plants across cultures for shamanic and psychic purposes. Luke emphasizes that substances like ayahuasca and peyote have been traditionally used for diagnostic and visionary experiences, and that the term 'psychedelic' (mind manifesting) and 'entheogen' (making the divine within) are more appropriate than 'drugs' in this context.

"Mushroom Dream Ceremony: A Sorcerer's Apprentice Guided to the Unknown" by Alysa Braceau

This article details Braceau's apprenticeship within a Native American sorcerer's tradition, focusing on her experiences with psilocybin mushrooms.

"The Pineal Gland: Psychic and Psychedelic Powerhouse" by Serena Roney-Dougal

Roney-Dougal presents research on the potential link between the pineal gland, endogenous DMT, and psi experiences, drawing from her book "Where Science and Magic Meet."

"Psi and Psychedelics: One Episode of Many" by Jean Millay

Millay, a pioneer in psi and psychedelic research, shares an account of an experience where psi and psychedelic phenomena intertwined.

"Out-of-Body Experience: The Dentist and Nitrous Oxide" by Mark A. Schroll

Schroll describes an out-of-body experience that occurred during a dental visit when he was a child, induced by nitrous oxide.

"Psychedelics & Spirituality" by Peter Barrett

Barrett offers an overview and comparison of literature concerning mystical and psychedelic experiences.

"In Memory of Stan Gooch" by Robert M. Schoch & Oana R. Ghiocel

This piece provides insight into the life, work, and theories of the late Stan Gooch.

Reviews and Catalogue

The issue also includes reviews by Rachael Hayward and Fiona Bowie, and a catalogue of psychedelic titles from Deep Books.

Discussion on Methodology and Cross-Cultural Research

David Luke further elaborates on the challenges and opportunities in researching paranormal phenomena across cultures. He discusses the historical reluctance of anthropologists to consider the ontological basis of the paranormal, often dismissing it as primitive thinking. However, a shift occurred following Joseph Long's work in the 1970s, leading to a more open-minded approach. Luke highlights the work of Patric Giesler and his "psi-in-process" method, which integrates ethnography with experimental design. He also mentions the extensive work of Serena Roney-Dougal in studying yogis and Tibetan Buddhist meditators. The article touches upon the difficulties of conducting cross-cultural psi experiments without deep ethnographic understanding, citing an example from rural Fiji. The potential of everyday psi experiences, like the sense of being stared at, is contrasted with the more vivid experiences reported under the influence of psychedelics.

Luke also discusses research linking psychedelic experiences to insights into DNA structure, citing the work of Jeremy Narby with ayahuasca and the claims of biochemist Kary Mullis regarding LSD's role in his discovery. The potential apocryphal story of Francis Crick's LSD use in discovering the double helix structure is also mentioned. The article notes that while psychedelic-DNA evidence is not conclusive, it highlights the imaginative power stimulated by psychedelics. It also references August Kekulé's visionary experience of the benzene molecule.

The issue delves into the history of psychedelic research, mentioning William James's experiments with nitrous oxide in 1862. It highlights Albert Hofmann's accidental discovery of LSD and his first LSD-induced out-of-body experience. The article notes Hofmann's recognition as a genius, possibly due to the profound effects of LSD. The strong bonds forming between psychedelic research and parapsychology in the 1950s are discussed, referencing early experiments with mescaline by John Smythies at Guy's Hospital and Humphry Osmond in Saskatchewan.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the profound and often intertwined nature of psychedelic experiences and psi phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, advocating for multidisciplinary approaches and acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of psychedelic substances in exploring consciousness and the paranormal. There is a clear emphasis on the potential for psychedelics to induce altered states that facilitate or reveal psi abilities, and a call for more rigorous, yet culturally sensitive, research in this area. The magazine promotes the idea that these experiences, while sometimes interpreted through a spiritual or shamanic lens, warrant serious scientific investigation.

This issue of Paranthroplogy: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal, Volume 2, Number 2, published in 2010, delves into the complex and often controversial relationship between psychedelic substances and parapsychological phenomena. The journal explores the historical trajectory of this research, its decline due to societal and legal pressures, and its potential resurgence.

The Psychedelic-Parapsychology Nexus

The article begins by tracing the origins of the term "psychedelic," coined by Humphry Osmond in correspondence with Aldous Huxley following Huxley's mescaline experience. Huxley's subsequent book, "The Doors of Perception" (1954), further popularized psychedelics and proposed a neurochemical model of ESP, suggesting that these substances could override the brain's "reducing valve" and grant access to a wider spectrum of information, potentially including past and future events.

Another significant event in 1953 was Gordon Wasson's discovery of the sacramental use of Psilocybe mexicana in Mexico, where a Mazatec shaman demonstrated apparent clairvoyance and precognition under the influence of psilocybin. This discovery added to the growing interest in the potential of psychoactive substances to induce or enhance paranormal experiences.

In 1961, Arthur Koestler's interest in the field led him to meet with Timothy Leary and J. B. Rhine. Leary had begun experimenting with psilocybin, and while his subsequent "tune in, turn on, and drop out" activities alienated some scientists like Rhine, the exploration of psychedelics for research continued.

The Decline and Stigmatization of Research

The 1960s saw a rise in experimental psi research programs involving psychedelics, with notable researchers like Karl Osis, Walter Pahnke, and others conducting studies. However, the growing counter-culture movement, widespread public use of psychedelics, and the ensuing moral panic led to their criminalization in the late 1960s. This effectively halted human research with these substances globally.

This period also saw a divergence between parapsychology and psychedelic research. Parapsychologists, already facing criticism, distanced themselves from the perceived fringe association with psychedelics, and vice versa. Both fields became too stigmatized to openly collaborate.

The Renaissance of Psychedelic Research

The mid-1990s marked a turning point, with researchers like Dr. Rick Strassman taking risks to pursue ethical approval for human psychedelic research, primarily for therapeutic purposes. This resurgence was aided by organizations such as the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) in the US and the Beckley Foundation in the UK, which funded reputable, ethically approved research into substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD.

Currently, psychedelic research is experiencing a renaissance, with projects underway at prestigious universities like Harvard and Johns Hopkins. Despite the historical negative baggage associated with the term "psychedelic," advocates have largely retained it, recognizing the substances' potential benefits. Two key factors contributing to this shift are the passage of time, which has diminished the media hysteria of the sixties, and the persistent affirmation of safety and efficacy by serious scientists and therapists.

Parallels and Lessons for Parapsychology

The article draws parallels between the challenges faced by psychedelic research and parapsychology, suggesting that parapsychology should not shy away from its interests but rather "speak truth to power" and persevere despite opposition. The recent positive findings regarding MDMA for PTSD treatment are highlighted as an example of the potential for groundbreaking research.

Furthermore, the article notes an increase in university departments researching and teaching the paranormal in the UK, with parapsychology even making its way into pre-university psychology syllabi. This suggests a growing openness to the field.

The Future of "Para-Psychopharmacology"

The author proposes the term "para-psychopharmacology" to describe the investigation of the neurochemistry underlying parapsychological processes. This interdisciplinary approach would encompass neurobiology, psychopharmacology, ethnobotany, anthropology, and more. The article emphasizes that while the field is nascent and much is unknown, studying the neurochemistry of these experiences can shed light on the biology of paranormal phenomena, regardless of their ultimate validity.

It is noted that the number of known psychedelic substances has increased significantly since 1900, and that traditional shamanic practices offer valuable insights into navigating altered states of consciousness. The potential for psychedelics to induce transpersonal experiences, such as contact with discarnate entities, is discussed as relevant to studies of mediumship, apparitions, and alien abduction experiences.

Conclusion

The issue concludes by emphasizing the need for a taxonomic approach to understand which substances, under what conditions, and for whom, best activate particular experiences. It acknowledges that current knowledge is limited but suggests that by investigating the intersection of psychedelics and parapsychology, new insights into consciousness and the nature of reality may be uncovered. The article references a wealth of studies and authors, underscoring the depth of research in this area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The central theme of this issue is the historical and contemporary relationship between psychedelic substances and parapsychological phenomena. The editorial stance is one of cautious optimism, advocating for a more open and interdisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry. It champions the idea that research into psychedelics, once heavily stigmatized, is undergoing a renaissance, and suggests that parapsychology can learn from this experience by embracing its own unique areas of study without fear of association. The journal appears to support the idea that these substances can unlock or enhance paranormal experiences and that further research is warranted.

This issue of Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal, Volume 2, Number 2, dated 2010, features a cover story titled "Mushroom Dream Ceremony" by Alysa Braceau. The journal is published by Green Magic Books and focuses on anthropological perspectives of paranormal phenomena.

Mushroom Dream Ceremony

This section presents an excerpt from Alysa Braceau's book, "The Sorcerer's Dream," which chronicles her initiation into the Native American sorcerer's tradition. Braceau describes the process of mastering lucid dreaming as a path to self-healing and reaching one's totality. A key step in her initiation involved consuming magic mushrooms (Psilocybin) during a dreaming ceremony to be guided by an entity named Mateeë. This entity, appearing in dreams, teaches that "this reality is not the only one" and guides the practitioner to shift their assemblage point. The characteristics of Mateeë are described as cosmic love, humor, and beauty. Braceau notes that this tradition aligns with the teachings of Carlos Castaneda and others, referencing the "first line of knowledge" from the Toltecs and Aztecs, and the "Native American second line tradition: Monumental Beauty."

Her dreaming teacher, Running Deer (aka Vidar), announced her candidacy for Mateeë, who would guide her to the unknown. Vidar emphasized that encountering Mateeë offers "intellectual freedom," contrasting it with the "intellectual arrogance of mankind." However, he cautioned that entering the unknown can be dangerous without a guide, as it involves confronting one's fears and traumas. Braceau shares a part of her experience taking magic mushrooms in her second dreaming ceremony, explaining that her book elaborates on the role of these mushrooms in traditional dreaming ceremonies.

Excerpt: The Sorcerer's Dream/Psychedelic Experiences

Braceau recounts a specific dreaming ceremony guided by Vidar, who begins by drumming. The drumming creates an immersive experience, leading her to feel transported centuries back in time, to a scene near a crackling fire under a starry sky, where their love is described as eternal. As the drumming intervals lengthen, the experience intensifies. She describes receiving new insights and wisdom, understanding the reasons for her life's challenges. A voice tells her, "You're too big for this world," suggesting her impatience and irritations stem from living in a limited world.

The experience is described as "sen-sa-tio-nal," "mag-ni-fi-cent," and "heaven." She then witnesses a spectacle of ink drops bursting on the floor and forming insect-like species that move across the floor. She marvels at this, feeling a desire for more. Vidar observes her reaction with satisfaction, noting that she is learning to achieve this state independently.

Braceau then describes seeing a three-dimensional image of a voluptuous dancer, with a round face, tight page-haircut, and short skirt, set against a dark purple background with tiny orange diagonal squares. The image is compared to Fifties Art and Chagall's paintings. Vidar tells her, "You're looking at your own beauty."

Bio and About the Book

Alysa Braceau, also known as Dreamshield, resides in the Netherlands. She is a mother, a freelance journalist, and publisher, with a background in social legal studies. She also maintains a healing practice and conducts workshops on the Art of Dreaming. "The Sorcerer's Dream" is her book, focusing on the sorcerer's tradition and mastering lucid dreaming, based on her personal experiences.

The Pineal Gland: Psychic and Psychedelic Powerhouse

This article, an excerpt from chapter 4 of "Where Science and Magic Meet" by Serena Roney-Dougal, explores the connection between the pineal gland, psychic experiences, and psychedelic states.

The author posits that altered states of consciousness are conducive to psychic (psi) experiences, supported by various relaxation, dream, hypnotic, and meditation experiments, as well as traditional yogic teachings like Patanjali's. She emphasizes the inseparable link between the mind and body, suggesting that the pineal gland produces natural ayahuasca, which is psi-conducive and facilitates altered states of consciousness.

Folklore: East and West

The concept of a "third eye" or "second sight" in folklore is linked to the "ajna chakra" in Indian terminology, which some yoga teachers equate with the pineal gland. Descartes famously called the pineal gland "the seat of the soul." Swami Satyananda Saraswati is quoted stating that the ajna chakra's physical equivalent is the pineal gland, and that yogis consider telepathy a "siddhi" (psychic power) transmitted through the ajna chakra, with the pineal gland acting as the receptor and sender of subtle vibrations.

The Anthropological Evidence

The folklore surrounding the pineal gland is further supported by divinatory practices among South American Indian tribes who use the vine Banisteriopsis (known as 'the Sacred Vine') mixed with other plants to induce visions. Early chemical investigations of Banisteriopsis identified an alkaloid named 'telepathine,' later identified as harmine. This alkaloid is extracted from Banisteriopsis caapi, known by various names such as Yage, Ayahuasca, and Caapi in different regions. It is often mixed with plants like Psychotria viridis, containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), which is orally ingested and made bioavailable by the harmala alkaloids.

Anthropological reports suggest Ayahuasca facilitates more than just hallucinations, enabling the shaman's soul to leave the body (out-of-body experiences). The Jivaro, Conibo-Shipibo, and Amahuaca tribes report sensations of flying or the soul leaving the body. These experiences are compared to witches' flying ointments. While not definitive proof of psi conduciveness, it indicates its potential proximity.

The Amahuaca report that after drinking Ayahuasca, a jaguar spirit appears to the shaman, providing information, including the whereabouts of intended victims. The Conibo Indians believe Ayahuasca allows them to perceive the supernatural aspect of nature. The Jivaro shamans believe they can see distant persons and places, akin to clairvoyance and remote viewing.

Ayahuasca is also used for divination, healing, identifying personal enemies, and locating stolen articles. The Cashinahua people use it to learn about events removed by time or space, affecting their society. While visions may not always be alterable, they inform personal actions.

The article notes that this anthropological evidence requires controlled laboratory testing to confirm the psi-conducive properties of harmala alkaloids and DMT.

The Neurochemistry of Psi

The Pineal Gland

The pineal gland, located in the center of the brain and shaped like a pine cone, has a high blood flow and contains serotonin (5HT), a neurotransmitter related to DMT. It synthesizes melatonin, a neurohormone. Although centrally located, it is outside the blood-brain barrier and receives input from the autonomic nervous system. Noradrenaline stimulates the pineal to release melatonin and other neurochemicals. Light inhibits noradrenaline release, while stress increases it, meaning darkness and relaxation maximally stimulate the pineal.

Serotonin and Melatonin

The pineal gland has a high concentration of serotonin, which can be converted into hallucinogens. Normally, serotonin is inactivated by monoamine oxidase (MAO). However, substances that interfere with MAO can lead to a buildup of serotonin, potentially forming endogenous hallucinogens like 5-MeDMT. Harmala alkaloids from Ayahuasca are MAO inhibitors and CNS stimulants. The chemical structures of hallucinogens like DMT are similar to noradrenaline and serotonin, influencing nerve impulse transmission and mental states.

Light-Dark Cycles

Pineal activity is driven by the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), linked via the sympathetic nerves. Light activates the SCN, causing the pineal to become dormant, while darkness stimulates it to produce melatonin and pinoline. Peak melatonin levels occur around 2 a.m. Callaway and Whitehouse connect increased melatonin with REM dreaming sleep, suggesting that higher melatonin levels in babies and children correlate with their perceived psychic abilities. Melatonin is thought to influence serotonergic cells in the reticular activating system (RAS), potentially linking to subliminal perception and psi awareness.

Callaway proposes that pinoline and serotonin interact to induce REM dreaming, lucid dreaming, and other altered states of consciousness (ASCs). Melatonin production initiates sleep onset, and as it reaches sufficient concentration, pinoline production begins, triggering dreaming through interaction with serotonin to create DMT. The cycle recurs, with increasing pinoline concentrations leading to longer dream durations. Parapsychologists have found that spontaneous psychic experiences, like precognition and bereavement hallucinations, often occur at night and are linked to dreams.

Psychosis, Psychedelics and the Pineal

This section, considered less substantial by the author, links the pineal gland to psychosis and psychedelics. It suggests that the brain might be naturally wired for endogenous hallucinogens. Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, and both exhibit a circadian rhythm. Melatonin controls eye pigmentation and light reception, potentially influencing specific states of consciousness. Mediums often worked in dim or red light for phenomena like ectoplasm. The Ganzfeld technique uses red light to induce a hypnagogic state. Melatonin acts as a neuroendocrine transducer, inducing drowsiness in darkness.

Beta-carbolines, Harmaline and the Pineal Gland

This section hypothesizes that the pineal gland, along with serotonin and melatonin, produces beta-carbolines, such as pinoline (6-methoxy tetrahydro-ẞ-carboline). These compounds are chemically similar to harmala alkaloids found in Ayahuasca. Pinoline can be formed from serotonin or melatonin. Researchers have confirmed pinoline's presence in the human pineal gland and suggested it modulates serotonin uptake. Beta-carbolines are neuromodulators that inhibit MAO-A, preventing the breakdown of serotonin and noradrenaline, thus increasing their levels in the synapses. This action is chemically linked to hallucinogens.

Strassman suggests that MAO inhibitors like pinoline could convert serotonin into DMT, implying that the pineal gland may produce endogenous Ayahuasca nightly, potentially altering consciousness to a psi-conducive state. The physiological effects of harmala alkaloids at high doses include visions, hallucinations, vomiting, and tremor, while lower doses cause bradycardia and light-headedness. The primary psychological effect of 6-methoxyharmalan is heightened introspection and inspiration, with altered perception of colors and increased sensitivity to senses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of consciousness, altered states, and anthropological perspectives on paranormal phenomena. The journal explores traditional practices, such as Native American sorcery and South American shamanism, alongside scientific research into neurochemistry and the pineal gland's role in psychic experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, bridging ancient wisdom and modern scientific investigation into phenomena that challenge conventional understanding of reality and consciousness.

This issue of Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal, Volume 2, Number 2, published around 2010, explores the complex relationship between psi phenomena, consciousness, and psychoactive substances. The journal features articles that bridge scientific research with anthropological and historical perspectives on altered states of consciousness, psychic abilities, and the human mind.

Article 1: Serotonin, Melatonin, and Psychic Functioning

This section delves into the neurochemical underpinnings of psychic experiences. It suggests that individuals prone to epilepsy or psychosis are sometimes identified as potential shamans due to their perceived connection to the spirit world and psi abilities. The article highlights the role of melatonin, which has an anti-epileptic effect and is involved in coping with long-term stress, often experienced by shamans and mystics undergoing rigorous training that can lead to mystical visions and out-of-body experiences. It notes that high concentrations of serotonin are found in the pineal glands of schizophrenics, and a dysfunction in serotonin metabolism is hypothesized as a trigger for psychosis. The cyclic nature of manic-depressive episodes is also linked to serotonin. Melatonin's ability to elevate cerebral serotonin, particularly in the mid-brain, is discussed in relation to sleep disturbances and altered arousal levels in psychotics. The article also touches upon beta-carbolines and their potential role in psychosis due to their hallucinogenic effects and interaction with serotonin, suggesting that endogenous psychedelic dream mechanisms might malfunction in psychotic individuals. For further details, readers are directed to an article titled "Walking Between the Worlds" available online.

Conclusion on Neurochemistry and Psi

The conclusion states that while a clear link between brain functioning and psychological aspects of psychic functioning is not yet established, the available evidence is gradually clarifying the picture. The information presented validates folk and magical lore concerning psychic functioning. Despite the current lack of understanding regarding the exact mechanisms of pineal chemicals and their effects on consciousness and behavior, this thesis could contribute to a greater understanding of the physiological processes underlying psi-conducive states of consciousness.

Article 2: Psi and Psychedelics: One Episode of Many by Jean Millay

Jean Millay, an 81-year-old researcher with over 50 years of experience in psychic insights, shares personal experiences with psi phenomena and psychedelics. She argues that the traditional materialist view of the mind as merely an epiphenomenon of the brain is no longer acceptable, especially in light of evidence for psi phenomena. Millay recounts an invitation to demonstrate her "First Brainwave Biofeedback Light Sculpture" at the Congress of Sorcery in Bogota, Colombia, in August 1975. During this event, she conducted an intercontinental remote viewing experiment with a medicine man named "Seucuicui," whose name means "bearer of the light." This experience was facilitated by translations between English, Spanish, and the indigenous language.

Visit to an Abintiqua Village

Following the congress, Millay was invited by Seucuicui to visit his village. The journey involved a plane ride, a bus trip, and finally a jeep ride. During the trip, Millay experienced stomach pain, which she attributed to a meat pie. She used a sacred herb (Colombian grass or hashish) for healing, entering a deep meditation to visualize her intestines moving. Upon returning to the jeep, a strange event occurred: after picking up a bright orange flower, she received a stern psychic message from Seucuicui: "you put your magic in the machine. We put our magic in the land. THE LAND WILL WIN." Immediately after, the jeep stopped due to water in the carburetor, forcing everyone to walk. Seucuicui psychically accompanied Millay, guiding her to feel the land. Eventually, the jeep was repaired, and Millay made her flight connections.

Mind-Body Connection and Fundamental Forces

Millay posits that the mind co-exists with the brain but is also independent of it, enabling perception of events at a distance. She discusses how remote viewing requires clarity and non-attachment to information. The article also touches upon near-death experiences, where individuals clinically dead can still perceive events. Millay proposes the existence of a "5th Fundamental Force" in the Universe, beyond the known four (weak and strong nuclear forces, gravity, and electromagnetism), suggesting it might be a specialized form of Cosmic Consciousness that becomes the Consciousness of Life. She references her own publications and those of others in the field, including "Radiant Minds: Scientists Explore the Dimensions of Consciousness" and "Multidimensional Mind: Remote Viewing in Hyperspace."

Article 3: Out-of-Body Experience, The Dentist and Nitrous Oxide by Mark A. Schroll

Mark A. Schroll recounts his personal out-of-body experience (OBE) at the age of 12, which occurred during a dental visit for wisdom teeth removal. While afraid of the pain, he increased the gain on the nitrous oxide apparatus, leading to an experience of astral projection or the projection of his consciousness into another room. He notes that dental nitrous oxide apparatus mixes oxygen and nitrous oxide for prolonged exposure, unlike the brief use for light-headedness. Schroll mentions that William James' views in "The Varieties of Religious Experience" were influenced by his own experimentation with nitrous oxide, which he believed could reveal potential forms of consciousness beyond normal waking consciousness.

Introduction to OBE and Nitrous Oxide

Schroll defines an out-of-body experience as one where the subject perceives themselves as located elsewhere, generally in an ordinary state of consciousness, with a feeling of disconnection from their physical body. He aims to legitimize nitrous oxide as a tool for illuminating transpersonal experiences. He references William James' statement that "Our normal waking consciousness... is but one special type of consciousness, whilst all about it... there lie potential forms of consciousness entirely different."

References and Notes

The journal includes extensive lists of references cited in the articles, covering a wide range of scientific, anthropological, and parapsychological literature. These references include works on neurobiology, ethnopharmacology, shamanism, remote viewing, and altered states of consciousness. Notable cited authors include C. Honorton, S. Krippner, R.J. Wurtman, and R.E. Rhine. The notes also point to specific academic journals and books where further information can be found.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the intersection of consciousness, altered states, and paranormal phenomena. There's a strong emphasis on bridging scientific inquiry with anecdotal and anthropological evidence. The journal appears to adopt an open-minded, yet evidence-based approach, validating traditional beliefs and experiences while seeking scientific explanations. The recurring themes include the neurochemical basis of consciousness and psychic abilities, the role of psychedelics and other substances in accessing altered states, and the validity of subjective experiences like remote viewing and out-of-body experiences. The editorial stance seems to be one of advocating for a broader understanding of consciousness that moves beyond purely materialistic explanations, incorporating elements of spirituality and subjective experience.

Title: PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL
Issue: VOL. 2 NO. 2
Date: 2011 (inferred from context)
Publisher: PARANTHROPOLOGY
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Paranthro explores the intersection of consciousness, spirituality, and the paranormal, featuring articles on psychedelic experiences, an obituary for Stan Gooch, and a bibliography of relevant works.

Personal Account: Out-of-Body Experience

The issue opens with a first-person narrative detailing a profound out-of-body experience that occurred during a dental procedure involving nitrous oxide. The author describes a sensation of their consciousness leaving their body and observing the surroundings from above. This experience, which took place 40 years prior, intensified the author's interest in psi research and the nature of consciousness.

Article: Psychedelics & Spirituality

Authored by Peter Barrett, this extensive article examines the claim that mystical experiences induced by psychotropic drugs are similar to those reported by non-drug-using mystics. Barrett defines psychedelics as 'soul-manifesting' and notes that such experiences can be induced through various means, including sensory stimulation and psychotropic substances. He contrasts the views of Aldous Huxley, who suggested that drugs like LSD could duplicate visionary experiences and foster self-transcendence, with those of R. C. Zaehner, who argued for the superiority of traditional religious contemplation.

The article delves into historical research, including the work of Oscar Janiger, who administered LSD to volunteers, finding that a significant percentage reported religious phenomena. It also discusses Walter Norman Pahnke's influential 1963 study, 'The Miracle of Marsh Chapel,' which investigated the similarities between drug-induced and spontaneous mystical experiences. Pahnke's research identified five types of psychedelic experiences and proposed that drugs act as triggers, with the outcome dependent on factors like preparation and setting.

Further research by Griffiths et al. in 2006 and 2008 is presented, which found that psilocybin could occasion mystical-type experiences with substantial personal meaning and spiritual significance, leading to sustained positive changes in attitudes and behavior. The article highlights common components of religious/mystical experiences, such as happiness, peace, detachment, and a sense of ultimate reality, and notes that while psychedelic drugs can facilitate these, the outcomes are not always predictable.

In Memory of Stan Gooch (1932-2010)

This section, written by Robert M. Schoch and Oana R. Ghiocel, serves as an obituary and tribute to Stan Gooch, a psychologist and parapsychologist whose work defied conventional academic categories. Gooch was trained as a psychologist but had a strong interest in the paranormal, which he accepted as genuine. He disdained laboratory experiments in favor of his own paranormal experiences and trance mediumship. His research focused on human personality, the unconscious mind, paranormal phenomena, and the mental/psychical life of Neanderthals, proposing that modern humans interbred with Neanderthals.

Gooch authored several books, including 'Total Man' and 'The Neanderthal Question.' Despite his intellectual contributions, he never achieved the popular recognition or financial success he desired, leading him to withdraw from public life before reemerging with his final book, 'The Neanderthal Legacy.'

The article details Gooch's view that paranormal phenomena are aspects of the human mind, not supernatural entities. He proposed the concept of an 'alternative universe' that exists alongside our 'objective universe,' and he located the 'headquarters of the unconscious mind' in the cerebellum. Gooch theorized a duality of personality, a divided self, where the 'alternative universe' has its own laws distinct from the objective world, and that scientific methods often fail to grasp or even cause these phenomena to disappear.

Bibliography

The issue includes an extensive bibliography, listing numerous academic works related to religious experience, consciousness, psychedelics, mysticism, and the paranormal. Key authors cited include William James, Aldous Huxley, R. C. Zaehner, Walter Norman Pahnke, Stanislav Grof, and researchers from institutions like Johns Hopkins University.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of consciousness, the nature of mystical and spiritual experiences, and the potential role of altered states, including those induced by psychedelics, in accessing these states. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between subjective experience and scientific inquiry, even when dealing with phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms. The journal appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance towards paranormal phenomena, acknowledging their reality while seeking to understand their underlying mechanisms, whether psychological, neurological, or otherwise. The obituary for Stan Gooch highlights a perspective that views paranormal phenomena as intrinsic aspects of the human mind rather than external supernatural forces.

This issue of PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL, Volume 2, Number 2, dated March-April 2011, explores a range of topics related to the paranormal, consciousness, and anthropological perspectives on the unexplained. It features theoretical discussions, event reviews, and book critiques.

Stan Gooch's Theories on Consciousness and the Paranormal

The issue delves into the theories of Stan Gooch, who posits a duality between the cerebrum and cerebellum, linking the cerebrum to waking consciousness and the cerebellum to unconsciousness and dreaming. Gooch suggests that the cerebellum is the primary driver of paranormal phenomena. He further proposes that individuals can either suppress these phenomena due to a focus on rationality or, if psychologically disturbed, become more open to them. Some individuals can reportedly navigate both rational and paranormal states simultaneously or switch between them, with certain contexts like séances or rituals enhancing these abilities.

Gooch's theory extends to evolutionary anthropology, suggesting that ancient Neanderthals, with their larger cerebellums compared to modern humans and Cro-Magnons, possessed enhanced intuitive and psychic abilities. He posits that modern humans are a result of hybridization between Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons, inheriting this duality of consciousness. Gooch generalized this duality further, describing it as an interaction of 'libido' (unconscious energy) and 'aggression' (external affairs).

The journal encourages readers to explore Gooch's published works and mentions ongoing research, including firsthand study of paranormal phenomena and reconstruction of Neanderthal life, ritual, and thought by researchers like Schoch and Ghiocel.

Spooksfest 2011 Review

Rachael Hayward reviews 'Spooksfest 2011', a festival held in York, UK, celebrating the paranormal and supernatural. The event featured talks by leading experts in the field. The review highlights presentations on Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) by Torchlight Paranormal Investigations, 'Phone Calls from the Dead' by Cal Cooper, and 'Demonology and Vampirology' by Dr. Ciaran O'Keeffe. Other speakers included Dr. Sean O'Callaghan on 'real' vampires and otherkin, Jack Hunter on 'The Anthropology of Spirit Mediumship', Dr. David Luke on the intersection of parapsychological experiences and psychoactive plants, and Jon Sales discussing the controversial topic of 'Orbs'. The review concludes that the festival provided a collection of captivating speakers and left attendees with new insights and further questions.

Book Review: Six Feet Over by Mary Roach

Fiona Bowie reviews Mary Roach's book 'Six Feet Over: Adventures in the Afterlife'. While acknowledging the book's witty and entertaining style, Bowie expresses disappointment with Roach's seemingly superficial and skeptical approach to psychic phenomena and mediumship. Roach's account of a weekend course on 'Fundamentals of Mediumship' at the Arthur Findlay College is described as crass and poorly researched by Bowie. Bowie contrasts Roach's experience with her own, emphasizing that many who engage with mediums are highly skeptical and aware of the potential for self-deception and fraud. She argues that external factors like the desire to please and unconscious conformity can influence perceived experiences, and that genuine mediumship is rare. Bowie also recounts her own experiences with psychometry and energetic communication through workshops at the College of Psychic Studies and a seminar with Brian Weiss, finding them to be comparable to learning to douse for water, requiring relaxation and an open mind.

Conferences and Events

The issue also advertises upcoming events:

• THE Paranormal Event of the Year: A two-day event on 10-11 September at the University of Bath, marking 30 years of ASSAP. It promises live experiments, research, talks by respected speakers, and accommodation.
• Daimonic Imagination: Uncanny Intelligence: A two-day conference at the University of Kent from 6th-7th May 2011, focusing on myth and intelligence.
• Exploring the Extraordinary: The 3rd conference, held from 23rd-25th September 2011 at the Holiday Inn Hotel, York. This conference aims to foster interdisciplinary discussion on extraordinary phenomena and experiences, with keynote speakers Prof. Charles Emmons and Dr. Serena Roney-Dougal.

Deep Books: Drugs and Psychedelics

A visually striking advertisement for 'Deep Books' focuses on the theme of 'Drugs and Psychedelics', featuring abstract imagery of an eye and a bottle of a substance labeled 'SD25'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of consciousness, the paranormal, and the anthropological study of these phenomena. There's a clear interest in exploring theories that bridge scientific and esoteric perspectives, as exemplified by the discussion of Stan Gooch's work. The journal also engages with contemporary paranormal events and research through reviews and event listings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while acknowledging the subjective and often controversial nature of paranormal experiences, as seen in the contrasting viewpoints presented in the book review.

This issue of Paranthopology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal, Volume 2, Number 2, dated November 2010, presents a comprehensive collection of "New Titles" in the field. The journal focuses on books that explore the intersection of anthropology, the paranormal, and the use of psychoactive substances.

Featured Books and Themes

The issue extensively reviews and describes a wide array of books, predominantly focusing on psychedelics, shamanism, and altered states of consciousness. Key themes include:

Psychedelics and Consciousness Expansion

Several books delve into the history, effects, and potential of various psychedelic substances. "The Acid Diaries" by Christopher Gray details personal experimentation with LSD and its revelations about underlying reality. "The Pot Book" by Julie Holland offers a comprehensive guide to the risks and benefits of cannabis, covering its physiological, psychological, and medicinal aspects. "Psychedelic Healing" by Neal M. Goldsmith explores the promise of entheogens for psychotherapy and spiritual development. "DMT: The Spirit Molecule" by Rick Strassman presents research into the biology of out-of-body, near-death, and mystical experiences induced by DMT. "Ecstasy: The Complete Guide" by Julie Holland provides an unbiased look at MDMA's risks and benefits. "LSD: Doorway to the Numinous" by Stanislav Grof, M.D., details groundbreaking research into the human unconscious through LSD. "Varieties of Psychedelic Experience" by Robert Masters and Jean Houston offers a classic guide to the effects of LSD. "Tryptamine Palace" by James Oroc explores 5-MeO-DMT and its transformative properties. "Psychotropic Mind" examines the world according to Ayahuasca, Iboga, and Shamanism.

Shamanism and Indigenous Traditions

Many titles highlight the role of psychoactive plants in shamanic practices and indigenous cultures. "Religion of Ayahuasca" by Alex Polari de Alverga recounts a classic spiritual encounter and the genesis of the Daime tradition. "Ayahuasca Reader" compiles texts on the sacred drink used by indigenous groups in the Amazon. "Visionary Plant Consciousness" explores the shamanic teachings of the plant world and human-plant interconnection. "Plant Spirit Shamanism" by Ross Heaven and Howard G. Charing details traditional techniques for healing the soul through plant spirits. "Jaguar That Roams the Mind" by Robert Tindall is an Amazonian plant spirit odyssey. "Iboga" discusses the visionary root of African shamanism. "Forest of Visions" by Alex Polari de Alverga explores the Santo Daime religion and its connection to jungle entheogens.

History and Culture of Psychoactive Substances

Several books trace the historical and cultural significance of mind-altering substances. "A Brief History of Drugs" by Antonio Escohotado examines the role of drugs in cultural, spiritual, and social development. "Plant Intoxicants" by Baron Von Bibra, originally published in 1855, studies the world-wide use of psychoactive plants in the nineteenth century. "The Seven Sisters of Sleep" by Mordecai Cooke is a 19th-century survey of drug use across the world. "Opium Culture" by Peter Lee delves into the art and ritual of opium use in Chinese tradition. "Cannabis Medicine" by Christian Rätsch profiles the medicinal, historical, and cultural uses of cannabis. "The Hemp Manifesto" by Rowan Robinson highlights the societal impact of hemp.

Alchemy, Magic, and Spirituality

Some books explore the mystical and spiritual dimensions associated with psychoactive substances and ancient practices. "Magic Mushrooms in Religion and Alchemy" by Clark Heinrich argues for the role of Amanita muscaria in religious history. "Celtic Plant Magic" by Jon Hughes offers a workbook for alchemical sex rituals. "Spagyrics" by Manfred M. Junius presents the alchemical preparation of medicinal essences. "The Mystery of Manna" by Dan Merkur provides evidence for a psychedelic sacrament in biblical tradition. "Psychedelic Sacrament" by Dan Merkur further explores this connection.

Visionary Art and Literature

The issue also features works by artists and writers exploring altered states. "Sacred Mirrors" and "Transfigurations" by Alex Grey showcase his visionary art. "Moksha: Huxley's Classic" compiles the prophetic and visionary writings of Aldous Huxley. "Psychonauts Guide to the Invisible Landscape" by Dan Carpenter details journeys into the invisible world through DXM. "Sacred Mirrors Cards" by Alex Grey offers meditation cards based on his artwork.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the profound influence of psychoactive substances on human consciousness, culture, spirituality, and the paranormal. The journal appears to adopt an open and scholarly approach, presenting research and historical accounts that explore these often-controversial topics. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of these phenomena, moving beyond societal taboos and misinformation. The emphasis is on the anthropological and historical context of drug use and its connection to human experience and belief systems.

This issue serves as a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts interested in the complex relationship between altered states of consciousness, cultural practices, and the exploration of the paranormal.

Title: PARANTHROPOLOGY: JOURNAL OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO THE PARANORMAL

Issue: VOL. 2 NO. 2

Date: Undetermined, but likely early 2000s based on ISBNs and content.

Publisher: deep books ltd

Country: United Kingdom

Language: English

Description: This issue of Paranthropology Journal, a publication focused on anthropological perspectives of the paranormal, features in-depth reviews of two significant books and a comprehensive catalog of related literature available from the publisher.

Book Reviews

Vodou Shaman: The Haitian Way of Healing and Power

• Author: Ross Heaven
• ISBN: 978-089281 134 2
• Price: £14.99

This review highlights Ross Heaven's book, which is presented as an insider's guide to Haitian Vodou. The book aims to demystify Vodou, moving beyond stereotypes to reveal it as a powerful shamanic tradition. It offers practical exercises for spiritual healing and personal development, enabling readers to connect with the spirit world, including the loa (spirits of the Other World), ghede (ancestral spirits), and djabs (nature spirits). The review notes that the book delves into the psychological principles behind these practices and includes techniques for soul journeying, warrior-path work, spiritual self-protection, soul retrieval, removing negative energies and curses, and utilizing herbs and magical baths.

Witchcraft Medicine: Healing Arts, Shamanic Practices and Forbidden Plants

• Authors: Muller-Ebeling, Rätsch & Storl
• ISBN: 978-089281 971 3
• Price: £21.00

The review of this book describes it as a journey into the world of female healers, the legacy of Hecate, the demonization of nature's healing powers, and the role of the sorceress as shaman. It explores plants associated with witches and devils, and the history of forbidden medicine from the Inquisition to modern drug laws. The book investigates how the sacred plants of ancestors can be rediscovered and used today, challenging the suppression of these practices by state and Church. It reveals that female shamanic medicine is a global phenomenon and is illustrated with historical art reproductions.

Deep Books Ltd. Catalog

The issue includes an extensive order list of books available from deep books ltd, covering a wide range of topics related to the paranormal, shamanism, psychedelics, and ethnobotany. Notable titles include:

• Psychedelics and Related Topics: "DMT: The Spirit Molecule," "Acid Diaries," "Ayahuasca," "Brief History of Drugs," "Ecstasy: The Complete Guide," "Hallucinogens," "LSD: Doorway to the Numinous," "Marijuana Medicine," "Plant Intoxicants," "Plants of the Gods," "Psychedelic Healing," "Psychedelic Sacrament," "Psychotropic Mind," "Salvia Divinorum," "Visionary Plant Consciousness," and "Varieties of Psychedelic Experience."
• Shamanism and Spiritual Practices: "Vodou Shaman," "Plant Spirit Shamanism," "Shamanic Way of the Bee," "Jaguar That Roams the Mind," "Forest of Visions," "Inner Paths to Outer Space," and "Sacred Mirrors: Visionary Art of Alex Grey."
• Witchcraft and Folklore: "Witchcraft Medicine," "Celtic Plant Magic," "Magic Mushrooms in Religion and Alchemy," and "Opium Culture."
• Other Topics: "The Great Book of Hemp," "Hemp Cookbook," "Hemp for Health," "Hemp Manifesto," "Intoxication," and "Mystery of Manna."

Journal Information and Contribution

About Paranthropology Journal

The journal is dedicated to exploring the paranormal through social-scientific lenses, with a primary focus on anthropology but also incorporating psychology, parapsychology, sociology, folklore, and history. It aims to examine how theoretical methodologies interact and illuminate the paranormal.

Accessing Past Issues

Readers can download complete issues, including "Psi and Psychedelics," and other previous issues for free from the journal's website: www.paranthropology.weebly.com/newsletter.html.

Contributing to the Journal

Potential contributors are invited to submit articles (500-2,000 words) or book reviews (up to 1,000 words) on topics relevant to a Paranthropologically-minded audience. Suggestions for future themes are also welcome. Contributions should be sent to Jack Hunter at [email protected].

Newsletter Subscription

To receive the newsletter for free via email, readers can fill out a form on the website or search for "Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal" on Facebook for news and updates.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the intersection of anthropology, shamanism, and the study of altered states of consciousness, particularly through the use of psychoactive substances and traditional healing practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the paranormal, utilizing rigorous academic and social-scientific methodologies while acknowledging and exploring diverse cultural traditions and their associated belief systems. The focus on books related to psychedelics and shamanism suggests a particular interest in these areas as pathways to understanding consciousness and the supernatural. The journal actively encourages contributions and engagement from its readership, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts in the field of paranormal studies.