lokariototal

Hello,

I read the other day a theory of Human evolution called "the stoned ape" theory (Google it, it's interesting), proposed by Terrence McKenna.

One of the things that the theory mentions is that drugs, or "entheogens" (wikipedia that word) might have been responsible for the invention of religion in human civilization.

"The mushroom, according to McKenna, had also given humans their first truly religious experiences (which, as he believed, were the basis for the foundation of all subsequent religions to date)."

I've read that Cannabis and other plants have been used in religious experiences for thousands of years.

My question is

Do you think Drugs or psychedelic plants at least, such as Cannabis among others were responsible for the idea of Religion??

Pavel

Drugs jolted the inventions of religions.Interesting theory

Brisieis

No I do not believe so.

Carlisle Blues

Drugs and religion? I use them both in moderation and only when prescribed.

corrocamino

Psychedelic stuff has indisputably figured prominently in religious ceremonies in various cultures, and so inevitably has influenced the evolution of those religions, perhaps being entirely responsible for some.

But I don't think that all religions began with substance "highs".

bunyip

The key word is 'might'. In reality I think pretty unlikely. The simple reason is that religion is ubiquitous in almost all human societies.

Today,it is widely accepted that the quest for the divine is probably hard wired in the human brain.

My view is simpler.Religion was invented and has survived because it meets human needs.

These needs include the imposition of a sense of order,meaning and purpose where none exist.Eg the argument called 'the god of the gaps' (argument from personal incredulity/lack of imagination) In practice; "I don't understand X Y or Z,therefore god did it"

It does not surprise me that there are strong correlations between religosity, poverty and ignorance,and secularism affuence and education

tjadams

Sure. One fool gets high and his 'visions' are considered sacred
by the uneducated masses.

Earl_of_Rochester

Hell yeah


I love this video, perfect dubbing from a London Drum & Bass club over the top of happy clappy church goers. As far as the OP is concerned, one can only assume these people are on drugs.

Pedro

It’s the old one seizure fits all fallacy.

vid

Here's an interesting paper on cannabis in Bible: FRDB Archives - View Single Post - Jesus Used Cannabis