The Illusion of Consensus

<p>This conversation with Dr. Matt Johnson delves into a new study he co-authored examining the effects of psilocybin on religious professionals, exploring their sacred experiences and the implications for their faith and practice. The discussion covers the study’s design, participant recruitment challenges, and the psychological impacts of psychedelics on spirituality and religious beliefs.</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 </strong>Introduction to Psychedelic Therapy</p><p><strong>01:52 </strong>Exploring the Psilocybin Study</p><p><strong>05:55 </strong>Spiritual Implications of Psychedelic Experiences</p><p><strong>07:34 </strong>Exploring the Study’s Intentions</p><p><strong>08:26 </strong>Understanding the Psychological Impact of Psilocybin</p><p><strong>08:53 </strong>Study Design Overview</p><p><strong>12:54 </strong>Diversity of Religious Participants</p><p><strong>16:59 </strong>Challenges in Recruitment</p><p><strong>20:49 </strong>Experiences During Psilocybin Sessions</p><p><strong>24:41 </strong>Exploring Common Religious Experiences</p><p><strong>28:58 </strong>Study Findings and Implications</p><p><strong>43:36 </strong>Exploring Tolerance and Positive Attitudes Post-Psilocybin</p><p><strong>46:30 </strong>Behavioral Changes and the Role of Service in Clergy</p><p><strong>48:44 </strong>The Importance of Concrete Behavioral Assessments</p><p><strong>55:36 </strong>The Critical Window for Change After Psychedelic Experiences</p><p><strong>57:18</strong> Positive Effects and Sacred Experiences from Psilocybin Sessions</p><p><strong>01:00:21 </strong>Understanding Profound Experiences and Their Impact</p><p><strong>01:05:05 </strong>Unconditional Love and Its Duration in Psilocybin Experiences</p><p><strong>01:10:18 </strong>Appreciation for Religious Diversity and Its Implications</p><p><strong>01:14:05 </strong>The Complexity of Tolerance and Belief Systems</p><p><strong>01:18:32 </strong>Ethical Oversight and Compliance in Research</p><p><strong>01:28:50 </strong>Religious Symbols and Their Impact on Research</p><p><strong>01:34:13 </strong>Diversity and Representation in Research</p><p><strong>01:40:14</strong> Publication Delays and Ethical Implications</p><p><strong>Support The Illusion of Consensus!</strong></p><p><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong><strong> is a fully reader-supported publication. If you support the high-quality science and Big Pharma journalism on this site, consider </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe"><strong>becoming a paid or founding member</strong></a><strong> to receive exclusive articles, early-access episodes, and ask questions for future episodes. Or </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong>support </strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong> with a one-time donation</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe</a>

<p>In the wake of the Charlie Kirk tragedy, as I was reflecting on what unites us amidst intense political division, I thought who better to come on to discuss this than Aubrey Marcus - a visionary podcaster, writer, and poet. </p><p>Aubrey and I delve deep into what shared values we can focus on that transcend politics, religious dogma, and cultural conventions. We explore the desensitization caused by social media, the importance of recognizing shared humanity, and the dangers of labeling individuals based on their political beliefs. The discussion emphasizes the need for open dialogue, the spectrum of values, and the potential for redemption and transformation in individuals. Ultimately, we advocate for finding common ground and uniting against anti-value ideologies while acknowledging the good intentions behind differing beliefs.</p><p><p>The Illusion of Consensus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></p><p>Listen Now:</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1amf3QjgfA0jubYNgsPUVn?si=2ba38b494b3e4dc2">Spotify</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-illusion-of-consensus/id1685718305?i=1000728119661">Apple</a> </p><p>Chapters:</p><p>00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation</p><p>07:13 The Charlie Kirk Assassination: Initial Reactions</p><p>13:18 Understanding Humanity Beyond Politics</p><p>18:16 The Dangers of Dehumanization</p><p>26:46 Awakening to Shared Humanity</p><p>32:59 Opportunities for Dialogue and Unity</p><p>36:03 Navigating Complex Ideologies and Values</p><p>44:15 The Struggle Between Good and Evil</p><p>45:42 Redefining Values and Responses</p><p>47:51 Unifying Against Anti-Values</p><p>50:42 The Spectrum of Values</p><p>55:02 Understanding Humanity and Morality</p><p>01:01:08 The Complexity of Beliefs</p><p>01:11:28 Universal Moral Truths and Shared Values</p><p>01:23:38 Exploring Universal Spiritual Themes</p><p>01:27:45 The Intersection of Eastern and Western Philosophies</p><p>01:31:41 The Nature of God and Personal Gnosis</p><p>01:35:41 The Role of Dogma in Spirituality</p><p>01:39:24 Humility and the Evolving Nature of Belief</p><p>01:51:00 Mental Health and Spiritual Practices</p><p>01:55:18 Introduction to Mental Health and Psychedelics</p><p>01:55:47 Exploring Future Episodes on Meditation and Therapy</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe</a>

<p>In this episode of the Illusion of Consensus podcast, Dr. Matt Johnson and I discuss the recent FDA decision regarding MDMA therapy for PTSD. The conversation covers the FDA's commitment to transparency in drug approval processes, the specific concerns raised in the rejection of MDMA therapy, and the implications for future psychedelic treatments. Dr. Johnson emphasizes the need for a fair evaluation process and the potential benefits of MDMA therapy compared to traditional SSRIs, while also addressing the importance of understanding the durability of treatment effects and the biases present in clinical trials.</p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p><strong>00:00</strong>Introduction to Psychedelic Research and FDA Transparency</p><p><strong>02:39</strong>FDA's Rejection of MDMA Therapy: Key Concerns</p><p><strong>04:55</strong>Exploring the FDA's Feedback on MDMA Therapy</p><p><strong>12:18</strong>Durability of MDMA's Effects in PTSD Treatment</p><p><strong>16:59</strong>Comparing MDMA Therapy to SSRIs for PTSD</p><p><strong>20:51</strong>Effect Sizes and Future of Psychedelic Treatments</p><p><strong>28:38</strong>MDMA Use and Treatment Efficacy</p><p><strong>32:02</strong>Pre-Screening and Selection Bias in Trials</p><p><strong>34:38</strong>Durability of Treatment Effects</p><p><strong>36:32</strong>Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of SSRIs</p><p><strong>39:29</strong>Societal Factors in Mental Health Treatment</p><p><strong>42:43</strong>The Role of Psychedelics in Therapy</p><p><strong>46:50</strong>Future of Psychedelic Therapy and FDA Regulations</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe</a>

<p>In this new podcast episode, I speak to Dave Smith about issues pressing the new independent media landscape such as the role of experts and the rise of misinformation. The podcast is structured as a kind of formalized response to Sam Harris and Douglas Murray’s recent podcast on the same subject which mentions Dave Smith throughout:</p><p>Dave and I also delve into the complexities of terrorism, foreign policy, and the historical context of U.S. involvement in the Middle East. We discuss the double standards in defining terrorism, the grievances that fuel radicalization, and the implications of military actions taken by both the U.S. and Israel. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of these issues, the importance of negotiation over military intervention, and the challenges posed </p><p>Links:</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bzYmFMdqpJ4XpY9vxucva?si=f2bdc8f5290a4308">Spotify</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-illusion-of-consensus/id1685718305?i=1000719434761">Apple</a></p><p>(Video version will be up tomorrow)</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 </strong>Introduction to the Illusion of Consensus Podcast</p><p><strong>06:01 </strong>Debate Dynamics: Gad Saad and Douglas Murray</p><p><strong>12:04 </strong>The Role of Experts in Media</p><p><strong>18:01 </strong>Civil Discourse and Respectful Engagement</p><p><strong>23:46 </strong>The Role of Joe Rogan in Public Discourse</p><p><strong>29:52 </strong>Concluding Thoughts on Current Events</p><p><strong>40:19 </strong>Debate Dynamics and Media Representation</p><p><strong>47:00 </strong>Expertise and Public Discourse</p><p><strong>53:59 </strong>Misinformation and Institutional Accountability</p><p><strong>01:04:14 </strong>The Role of Experience in Argumentation</p><p><strong>01:12:48 </strong>Debating Evidence and Claims</p><p><strong>01:18:32 </strong>Critique of Argumentation Tactics</p><p><strong>01:26:36 </strong>The Complexity of Truth and Responsibility</p><p><strong>01:35:13 </strong>Navigating Sensitive Topics in Debate</p><p><strong>01:48:47 </strong>Assertions vs. Arguments: The Debate Dynamics</p><p><strong>01:54:47 </strong>Understanding Radical Islam: A Complex Landscape</p><p><strong>02:00:08 </strong>The Impact of Foreign Policy on Terrorism</p><p><strong>02:06:39 </strong>The Nuances of Terrorism: A Comparative Analysis</p><p><strong>02:19:29 </strong>Charity in Discourse: The Challenge of Misinformation</p><p><strong>02:26:04 </strong>Strawman Arguments in Foreign Policy</p><p><strong>02:32:30 </strong>Historical Context of Military Interventions</p><p><strong>02:37:51 </strong>Negotiation Strategies in Conflict Resolution</p><p><strong>02:44:29 </strong>Alternatives to Military Action</p><p><strong>02:49:50 </strong>The Complexity of Asymmetrical Warfare</p><p><strong>02:55:28 </strong>The Right to Self-Determination</p><p><strong>Support The Illusion of Consensus!</strong></p><p><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong><strong> is a fully reader-supported publication. I need your support now more then every as I launch the new season of the show this week. If you support the high-quality science and Big Pharma journalism on this site, consider </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe"><strong>becoming a paid or founding member</strong></a><strong> to receive exclusive articles, early-access episodes, and ask questions for future episodes. Or </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong>support </strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong> with a one-time donation</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe</a>

<p>In this new conversation, Dr. Robert Malone and Rav Arora discuss the complexities surrounding vaccine authorization, the divisions within MAHA, the implications of FDA policies, and the recent MAHA Commission report. They emphasize the need for a nuanced understanding of vaccine efficacy and the political dynamics influencing public health decisions. The discussion also touches on the future of vaccines, the importance of advocacy, and the challenges faced in the regulatory landscape.</p><p><p><strong>The Illusion of Consensus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber:</strong></p></p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4oV0YcbEsHt1sgKRf5SWFJ?si=1532f69fad0a4b5b">Spotify</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-illusion-of-consensus/id1685718305?i=1000716562586">Apple</a></p><p>(Up on all video platforms in 48 hours)</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 </strong>Introduction and Personal Updates</p><p><strong>02:49 </strong>Exploring the SplinterNet and Video Streaming Opportunities</p><p><strong>05:52 </strong>The Dynamics of Content Creation and Monetization</p><p><strong>08:19 </strong>The State of Health Agencies and Political Landscape</p><p><strong>11:27 </strong>Challenges and Opportunities in the Maha Agenda</p><p><strong>39:37 </strong>The Evolution of the Maha Organizations</p><p><strong>42:20 </strong>Bobby Kennedy's Strategic Challenges</p><p><strong>44:58 </strong>Divisions Within the Vaccine Debate</p><p><strong>49:02 </strong>Political Strategies and Public Perception</p><p><strong>53:51 </strong>Navigating Regulatory Challenges</p><p><strong>58:23 </strong>Recent Developments in Vaccine Policy</p><p><strong>01:14:52 </strong>Insights from the Maha Commission Report</p><p><strong>01:17:39 </strong>Navigating Controversies in Health Policy</p><p><strong>01:20:27 </strong>The Role of Key Figures in Health Advocacy</p><p><strong>01:23:29 </strong>Insights from the Maha Report</p><p><strong>01:28:26 </strong>Populism and Policy Implementation Challenges</p><p><strong>01:34:57 </strong>The Future of Health Initiatives and Advocacy</p><p><strong>01:42:21 </strong>Understanding New Vaccine Developments</p><p><strong>Support The Illusion of Consensus!</strong></p><p><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong><strong> is a fully reader-supported publication. I need your support now more then every as I launch the new season of the show this week. If you support the high-quality science and Big Pharma journalism on this site, consider </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe"><strong>becoming a paid or founding member</strong></a><strong> to receive exclusive articles, early-access episodes, and ask questions for future episodes. Or </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong>support </strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong><em>The Illusion of Consensus</em></strong></a><a target="_blank" href="https://donorbox.org/help-fund-independent-journalism-2"><strong> with a one-time donation</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe</a>