Sep 24 2022

Selects: How LSD Works

Selects 77 min 3 movies discussed
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In 1943 Swiss chemist Albert Hofman discovered he'd created what may be the most potent hallucinogen known to humankind. Then he took a bike ride. Learn about the chemistry, neurology, history and cultural impact of LSD-25 in this classic episode.

AI Summary

# Stuff You Should Know: LSD

Josh and Chuck dive deep into the fascinating and complex history of LSD, from its accidental discovery by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in 1943 to its early promising use in psychiatric treatment before prohibition shut down research. They debunk popular myths about the drug while exploring how it went from a legitimate pharmaceutical to a cultural phenomenon, touching on everything from the famous "Bicycle Day" to why the government's fear-based messaging may have actually hindered medical progress. It's a comprehensive, entertaining look at one of the most significant and misunderstood substances in modern history.


Movies Discussed

Flirting with Disaster
Flirting with Disaster
1996 1h 33m
★ 6.2
"at the end of the movie, doses everyone at dinner with window pane — Referenced as an example of LSD use depicted in film, where a character doses others with gel tab LSD at a dinner scene." — Chuck
Mad Men
Mad Men
2007
★ 8.1
"there was an LSD episode for Mad Men, right. I think it's mentioned in that article. It was one of the best of a great show. — Referenced as a critically acclaimed TV episode featuring LSD use, specifically mentioning Roger Sterling's acid experience at a party." — Josh
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
1975 2h 13m
★ 8.4
"notably one floor with a Cuckoo's nest. Yeah. Which that alone makes him a great author. — Ken Kesey's novel adapted into a film, mentioned as a major cultural contribution and example of his literary work." — Josh

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